Thameslink Rail has been voted train operator of the year in the rail industries prestigious environment awards for its innovative use of CCTV and help points at stations.

The cross London train company which takes commuters from St Albans and Harpenden into the capital achieved "secure station" status for many of its stations, including City Thameslink.

The award was presented to Thameslink for staff training in personal and customer safety and the use of CCTV and help points at stations. This work was carried out with the help of the British Transport Police and crime prevention officers.

A Thameslink spokesman said the safety measures could be rolled out to stations across Hertfordshire in the near future.

Mr Dough Hooker, Thameslink safety manager, said: "It is great recognition for a lot of hard work and continuing effort by all our staff. The result has been big improvements in station environments.

"We continually strive to create higher levels of safety and comfort for our customers."

The judges also noted Thameslink's efficient energy use and impressive water and waste performance. For instance, using hi-tech washing machines to wash trains with recycled water.