Long-distance train operator CrossCountry is celebrating success at this year’s Women in Rail Awards, which took place last night (Wednesday 13 May) in London. The ninth annual event was held at the Roundhouse in Camden, bringing together over 740 professionals from across the UK rail industry for a spectacular evening of celebration, inspiration, and recognition.
Three CrossCountry colleagues were shortlisted across two award categories and were delighted to be named as winners in the Inspirational Frontline Woman of the Year category, as well as the Adeline Gill Unsung Hero of the Year category.
Lucy Willis, CrossCountry’s Catering Logistics Manager in Birmingham, and winner of the Adeline Gill Unsung Hero of the Year Award, said: “This is such a lovely surprise and a real honour. So much of what we do happens behind the scenes, but it’s all about supporting our colleagues and making sure things run as smoothly as possible for everyone.
“It means so much to be recognised, but this really reflects the collective effort of colleagues across our network who go above and beyond every day.”
Jane Fentaman, CrossCountry Train Driver at Leicester, and winner of the Inspirational Frontline Woman of the Year Award, said: “It’s an incredible honour to receive this award. My journey into rail hasn’t always been straightforward, but that’s exactly why I’m so passionate about encouraging others to believe there’s a place for them in this industry.
“If sharing my story helps even one person take that first step, then it’s all been worthwhile. I’m proud to work alongside such supportive colleagues at CrossCountry and the wider rail industry, and I thank every one of them who have helped me on my journey here today.”
A third CrossCountry colleague – Regional Customer Service Manager Chloe Bradbury – was also shortlisted for the Inspirational Frontline Woman of the Year Award.
Shiona Rolfe, CrossCountry’s Managing Director, said: “It was a privilege to attend this year’s Women in Rail Awards and to see first-hand the incredible talent, dedication and leadership of women across our industry. I’m especially proud that CrossCountry colleagues were recognised with two awards on the night – a fantastic achievement that reflects the strength of our people.
“Representation matters, and seeing role models like Jane and Lucy celebrated on a national stage is vital in encouraging more women to consider a career in rail. We remain committed to building an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.”
A total of 13 awards were presented, celebrating both individual excellence and collaborative initiatives that are shaping a more inclusive future for the rail industry.
The event, established to honour individuals and organisations who have made outstanding contributions to improving gender balance, diversity, and inclusion within the rail sector, was once again a resounding success. Hosted by Gail Porter, the evening featured moving stories, exceptional achievements, and a powerful sense of unity among attendees.
Marie Daly, Chair of Women in Rail and Chief Operations Officer at Transport for Wales, said: “Tonight is about celebrating brilliance, courage, and the extraordinary contribution women make to our railway every single day. This year feels particularly significant because, for the first time, Women in Rail has had a genuine voice at the table shaping the future of our industry. As Great British Railways develops, we have a once-in-a-generation opportunity not just to reform structures, but to design equity into the system from the very beginning. For me, GBR also represents a Gender Balance Reset.”
“Women currently make up just 18.9% of the rail workforce. That reality means our mission remains as important as ever. But this has never been about division or blame. Women in Rail has always been about collaboration, shared ownership, and creating an industry where everyone can thrive.”
“My message tonight is simple: lead with decency, courage, and respect. If we all do that, together, we can create the change we want to see across our industry.”
The complete list of Winners, Highly Commended, and Shortlisted is available on the Women in Rail website: www.womeninrail.org/awards
To find out more about working for CrossCountry, visit: www.crosscountrytrains.co.uk/crosscountry-careers
Contact Information
CrossCountry Press Office
[email protected]About CrossCountry
CrossCountry is a long-distance passenger train operator, with a network stretching from Aberdeen to Penzance and from Stansted to Cardiff and calling at over 100 stations. Based in Birmingham, CrossCountry connects seven of Britain’s 10 largest cities and delivers 240 services every weekday, equating to over 42 million passenger journeys each year.
For further information on CrossCountry services, visit crosscountrytrains.co.uk or visit one of our social media platforms via X @crosscountryuk or Facebook at facebook.com/crosscountrytrains
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