A RAILWAY heritage centre at Bere Ferrers in Tamar Valley has won a national award for its achievements. The Tamar Belle Visitor and Heritage Centre, next to Bere Ferrers Station, came second in the ?Best Heritage, Conservation Scheme? category at the National Community Rail Awards, held in Norwich recently. Co-ordinator Chris Groves was presented with a framed certificate and two free tickets for Virgin Trains on Friday, November 18 by Richard Burningham, manager of Devon and Cornwall Rail Partnership. Mr Burningham, committee member of the award organisers, said: ?I am delighted to present this award to Chris for the work he and his team have put in to make the Tamar Belle such a unique railway visitor and heritage centre. ?The award is richly deserved and I look forward to seeing the Tamar Belle go from strength to strength over the coming years.? Tamar Belle includes a former sleeping car converted to a visitor centre, the former signalbox from Pinhoe Station near Exeter, and working signals. It also has 1920s and 30s coaches adapted as attractive camping coaches and a former British Rail restaurant car where guests enjoy breakfast and other meals served on authentic BR crockery. For nformation about the Tamar Belle call 01822 840044 or visit http://www.tamarbelle.co.uk">www.tamarbelle.co.uk
