Volunteers and community groups have been recognised at the annual Poacher Line Awards, celebrating the people whose passion and dedication has helped transform local community stations into much more than places to catch a train.

Held during the lines 20th anniversary, the awards highlighted the wide-ranging work of station adopters and volunteers along the route.

From creating wildlife habitats and colourful station displays to preserving local heritage and bringing communities together, the projects demonstrate the important role railways can play in connecting people and strengthening local communities.

Cllr David East, Executive Member for Highways and Transport, said: "As we celebrate 20 years of the Poacher Line Community Rail Partnership, it is fitting that we also recognise the incredible volunteers and community groups who help make this line such a success.

"These awards showcase the many ways railways can contribute to community life. Stations aren’t just places where people begin and end their journeys. They have become wildlife havens, community gardens, outdoor galleries, places of remembrance and spaces where people can come together to make a positive difference for their area.

"Every project nominated here has been driven by people who care deeply about their communities, and I would like to thank all of our nominees, winners and volunteers for the enthusiasm and commitment that they bring to the Poacher Line. Nobody is doing this for the recognition, but their work making stations warm, welcoming and vibrant places wholeheartedly deserves to be celebrated."

The Poacher Line is a Department for Transport (DfT) accredited 78-mile Community Rail Partnership (CRP). It runs between Nottingham and Skegness and has 19 stations.

The CRP is hosted by Lincolnshire County Council, with East Midlands Railway as its lead funder, supported by London North Eastern Railway, CrossCountry and the DfT.

For more on the Poacher Line, visit Poacher Line.

Award winners

Boston Station Adopters transformed old whisky barrels into stunning planters

Giving back to nature – Radcliffe-on-Trent Station Adopters

Recognising outstanding work to support biodiversity and create thriving habitats for nature at the station. Protecting verges from car parking with a wildflower garden, shrubs and plants, helping make the railway corridor a greener and more welcoming environment for wildlife and locals.

Innovative adopters – Boston Station Adopters

For transforming an overgrown area of the station through the imaginative use of recycled whisky barrel planters and new wall planters, creating an attractive and welcoming space for passengers and visitors.

Making a difference in the community – Bingham Station Adopter

For inspiring young people through community engagement, spending time with local Guides groups at the station, helping them earn badges and teaching about railway safety, volunteering and the importance of community involvement.

Creative stations – Wainfleet Station Adopters

For developing the imaginative "Railway 200" silhouette project, showcasing the changing faces of railway passengers from the Victorian era through to the modern day and celebrating the rich heritage of Britain's railways.

Photo competition – Skegness Station Adopters

For capturing a photograph that perfectly reflects the spirit of station adoption projects, highlighting the friendship, shared purpose and community connection that develops through volunteering.