First Great Western was named Train Operator of the Year at an awards ceremony last night.

The company, which has turned itself around in the last 18 months, beat off stiff competition from train operators, including Chiltern Railways, London Underground and National Express at the national Rail Business Awards ceremony in London.

Over the last two years, First Great Western’s performance has risen by more than 10 per cent, with over 92 per cent of trains arriving on time.

There has also been a 10 per cent increase in passenger satisfaction scores, with 82 per cent of customers now happy with the service First Great Western provides.

Presenting the award, judges said: “The joint efforts of colleagues across the company have seen First Great Western move from bottom of the industry performance league table to seventh place out of more than19 train operators.”

Managing Director Mark Hopwood said: “This is a really fantastic achievement – we have come a long way in providing a good service for our customers. I want to say a big thank you to everyone at First Great Western for their hard work over the last couple of years and to our customers for their continued support.

“There is still more to do, but I’m really proud of everyone and what we have achieved so far.”

First was announced Rail Business of the Year, and First Great Western was not the only operator within the organisation to scoop an award last night.

First Capital Connect received the Internal Communications Excellence award, while First TransPennine Express scooped first place in the Environment Innovation of the Year category.

In the individual categories, Daniel Williams of First Capital Connect was named Young Professional of the Year.

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