The RailStaff Awards 2024

Chris Austin

Said the following about Aintree Grand National Team 22:

“2022 saw the return of the Grand National to Aintree & Liverpool. Having been suspended for the past 2 years the 2022 National was set to be huge.

The event itself was ran to perfection and really showcased the Merseyrail rail network.

The planning of the event started back in 2021 where we were still reeling from the fall out of yet another lockdown. However the team banded together and started to produce a plan that could manage the forecasted increase in capacity of the racecourse. The team involved a whole host of functions within the business (Stations, Operations, Planning, Marketing, and Safety to name a few). As the event got closer we had to involve our stakeholders and gain insight from the likes of the British Transport Police, Merseyside Fire & Rescue, and North West ambulance and ensure that all of their requirements were met. When the event was finally upon us it was truly inspiring to see the team spirt that was felt throughout each function on the ground. Everyone knew what they had to do and did it to the highest of standards.

As a result a total of 125,000 passengers were transported over the 3 days. We also handed out 7,000 pairs of free flip flops in order to aid our customers who had been on their feet most of the day! The team truly stepped up to the challenge and met it head on - months of planning and long days for all the staff and volunteers involved. Sally herself led the team from the first planning session right through to the last customers traveling back to Liverpool so a big thank you to her!“