Preston station shortlisted as one of Britain’s most life-changing stations

• Preston shortlisted in competition to find Britain’s most life-changing station
• Role of Lancashire station during wartime recognised as UK marks 200 years of the railways
• Public invited to vote in competition that shines spotlight on incredible stories

Preston station has reached the final stages of a unique competition to find Britain’s most life-changing station which launches today, 13 October.

Managed by Avanti West Coast, the Lancashire station is one of 20 to be shortlisted in the annual World Cup of Stations contest hosted by Rail Delivery Group (RDG) – with the voting phase open online between 13 and 17 October. Preston has been recognised for its significant role during World War One.

The theme of this year’s competition is designed to shine a spotlight on the stories behind the stations in the UK – from sporting firsts to wartime stories – and is part of celebrations marking 200 years of the modern railway.

A judging panel comprising of industry leaders, public figures and historians selected 20 standout stations to compete in the public vote.

The public are invited to pick their favourite – with the nominee to receive the most votes named ‘Britain’s most life-changing station’.

Between 1915 and 1919, Preston station became a place of comfort for millions of servicemen passing through on their way to or from battle on the frontline. Some were wounded and heading home, others were setting out on long journeys to Europe, often hungry and exhausted.

Recognising this, Mayoress Anna Cartmell and a group of local women launched Preston Station Free Buffet in August 1915. Staffed entirely by volunteers, 400 women worked in shifts around the clock – ensuring the buffet was open 24 hours a day.

The effort reached extraordinary peaks, with nearly 2,500 troops receiving food and shelter in just 36 hours before Christmas 1916. Preston offered more than refreshments – it offered a moment of humanity amid the hardships of war.

Today the waiting room between platforms 3 and 4 displays images commemorating the centenary of the Preston Station Free Buffet – providing a permanent reminder of this fascinating wartime story.

Kathryn Cowling, Avanti West Coast Team Leader at Preston, said: “We’re proud Preston station’s efforts to look out for our armed forces during the First World War is being highlighted, as it’s a fascinating piece of history.

“As we celebrate the 200^th anniversary of the UK’s railway, it’s important we recognise the vital role stations continue to have in peoples’ lives. By shining a spotlight on these stories, we hope they can be shared with future generations. We want everyone to vote for us to win the title of Britain’s most life-changing station!”

Jacqueline Starr, Executive Chair and Chief Executive Officer of Rail Delivery Group, said: “As we celebrate 200 years of rail history, it’s the stories behind the stations that remind us of their enduring value – connecting towns, people and possibilities.

“These 20 stations represent the heart and soul of what makes Britain’s railways extraordinary. From places that have sparked hope, to those that have held communities together – this is your chance to vote for the station that has really changed lives.”

Emma Roberts, Programme Manager for Railway 200, added: “Train stations are vital and transformative gateways for the people and communities they serve. In this bicentenary year, please vote for the shortlisted station that’s had the biggest impact on your life.”

To vote for Preston, visit: www.raildeliverygroup.com/WorldCupOfStations  

ENDS