TRAIN company c2c has been awarded the Sword of Honour, the most prestigious safety award in the UK.

The desirable award, given by the British Safety Council, recognises commitment to excellent health and safety management standards.

Companies that have been awarded a five star rating in a rigorous two-week check can apply for the honour, which is recognised as the pinnacle of achievement in the world of health and safety management.

c2c managing director Julian Drury said the company believes that the safety of passengers and our staff is everyone’s business.

He added: “We’re delighted that the hard work done by each and every one of our employees has been publicly recognised with this honour.”

Mike Robinson, chief executive of the British Safety Council, said he wanted to congratulate c2c for the companies huge commitment to keeping their workplaces safe and healthy during their organisation’s day-to- day activities.

He added: “All of the Sword-winning organisations share a commitment and resolve to achieving the highest standards of health and safety management. We are delighted that they are partners in helping achieve our vision that no one should be injured or made ill at work.”

New safety initiatives by c2c in the past 18 months include a new 24/7 CCTV operating centre, a dedicated British Transport Police unit for the c2c route, and the introduction of staffing at every single station from before the first train of the day until after the final service departs.