A COMMUNITY rail group has been recognised by the Government for its work in serving the Purbeck area.

The Purbeck Community Rail Partnership (PCRP) – is the first Community Rail Partnership (CRP) wholly on the South Western Railway (SWR) network to achieve the Department for Transport’s coveted accreditation status.

The CRP covers Holton Heath to Moreton, including Swanage Railway – a heritage branch line dating back to 1885.

The group was formed to connect the railway to the local area, develop existing stations and support the local economy.

Accreditation requires the not-for-profit partnership to demonstrate good organisation, tangible achievements from the last 12 months, clear and transparent governance, and a clear, financed plan for the forthcoming year.

CRPs work to help further connect the railway with the communities they serve. They were initially set up to encourage people to use their local railway services, especially during off-peak times, however more recently CRPs have worked closely with train operators to encourage diverse involvement, as well as supporting social and economic development.

SWR’s Community Rail Manager, Andy Harrowell said: "It is brilliant news that PCRP has achieved this accreditation, which is an appropriate and well-deserved recognition of the group’s commitment to the railway and their local community.

"I know that PCRP has been utilising lockdown to both prepare for accreditation and plan for when life returns to normal. Post-lockdown, it will be more important than ever to promote the wonderful Swanage Railway – something which PCRP is clearly committed to."