EAST Coast train operator GNER has won a prize hat-trick at the rail industry's top awards.

The company took the accolades at the National Rail Awards, which celebrate excellence and achievement in the UK rail industry.

GNER's chief executive Christopher Garnett said: "I am delighted by this triple achievement.

"The true strength of GNER is in its people. They have worked tirelessly, and remain completely dedicated to delivering the highest standards of service."

GNER won the Innovation of the Year award for its pioneering, on-train wireless internet service.

GNER's station team at Darlington won the title of Large Station of the Year.

And the keenly-contested award for London Operational Team of the Year went to GNER's Bounds Green depot in north London.