The operating team at Great Western Railway (GWR) has taken the Golden Whistle in a national awards ceremony.

The train operating company, formerly First Great Western, scooped the Golden Whistle for Major Possessions, Projects and Central Station Team award - the highest honour within the 'outstanding operating team' category - at the Institute of Railway Operators Golden Whistle Awards.

The company was also handed two silver awards for regional and intercity operational performance.

Customer services training manager Ashley Bray was also highly commended in the 'outstanding individual' category.

GWR Managing Director Mark Hopwood said: "These results clearly show our commitment to 'Building a Greater West' and investing in what we know our customers want to see, and reflect the hard work of thousands of GWR colleagues.

"I am immensely proud of these awards and the work put in by all of our dedicated staff."

The recognition comes just days after GWR achieved its highest ever score for customer satisfaction according to independent transport user watchdog, Transport Focus.

According to the National Rail Passenger Survey customer satisfaction has also jumped from 81 per cent last year to 84 per cent.

Unlike other industry awards the Golden Whistles are dedicated to people who work in railway operations.