Inverness Depot Scoops ScotRail Team of the Year Award

Ice, snow and sub-zero temperatures - it was all in a day's work for ScotRail's Inverness depot last winter (2009-2010). As the country braced itself against the worst arctic conditions in over 30 years - and with blizzards making many roads impassable, the ScotRail team literally worked around the clock to keep people in the north on the move.

Derek Mackintosh, depot production engineer at Inverness, was so impressed with the way that staff pulled together that he nominated them for ScotRail's annual Team Pride award. Their efforts have now seen the team scoop the 2010 title.

Derek said, "Last year's extreme winter was a massive challenge and we did all we could to keep services running, no matter the conditions. He added, "Our maintenance engineers braved the elements to service stranded trains and the Inverness staff also travelled out with their normal areas to keep trains running - including our prestigious overnight Caledonian Sleepers"

The depot was awarded £250 for a celebratory night - and a £250 donation to a charity of its choice. However, the big-hearted staff have donated the full £500 to charity - with the money going to the Highland Hospice and MacMillan Nurses.

Derek concluded, "We were really proud to win. Last winter was harsh, even for us Highlanders, so we're pleased to get this recognition and, of course, to support two local charities."

Kenny Scott, ScotRail's engineering director, said, "Derek's team maintained the best rail service practical when alternative road options were extremely daunting and it was very difficult for some staff to get to and from their place of work."