DRS have been presented with a prestigious industry award for being the UK’s ‘Best Performing Rail Freight Operator’ at this year’s “The Golden Whistle Awards”.
The event is organised by the Institute of Railway Operators (IRO) in conjunction with Modern Railways Magazine to celebrate operational ? excellence in the industry.
This is the second time DRS has won the award and it showcases the dedication we have at retaining our position as officially the leading rail freight operator in the UK.
Neil McNicholas, Managing Director of DRS, said: “We’re delighted to win this very prestigious award for a second time. This award recognises the world- class skills and dedication of the DRS workforce and the vital job they do for the country every day. I’d like to thank all of our staff for their contribution, particularly those who have been instrumental in delivering performance improvements during the last 12 months.”
Norman Egglestone, Head of Performance for DRS added: “This award is measured on train service arrivals over a 12 month period and clearly demonstrates once again the professionalism and determination of all those involved with delivery of train services, operation of terminals and maintenance of our fleet. A superb team effort.”
As a subsidiary of the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) DRS are responsible for transporting nuclear materials around the UK, John Clarke, Chief Executive of the NDA, said: “Congratulations to Neil and his team on winning this prestigious award for a second time – a very impressive achievement. I’m delighted to see DRS gaining much-deserved praise for the excellent service they provide for the UK nuclear industry. The safe and secure transportation of spent fuel around the UK via rail is an essential service that directly contributes to keeping electricity flowing to homes and businesses across the UK.”
DRS was established in 1995 as a supplier of transport and associated services to the nuclear industry. Today the company employs more than 300 staff and has an annual turnover of £60m, operating from rail hubs in Carlisle and Crewe along with a network of 23 depots across the country.
The firm has diversified in recent years and successfully extended its service offerings into a number of new and exciting rail market sectors.