AN EAST Ayrshire station is in the running to win a nationwide award.

Kilmarnock railway station has been shortlisted in the World Cup of Stations 2024, a competition that celebrates the importance of the railway in supporting communities, businesses, and the economy.

It has been nominated alongside three other stations in the Scotland heat, which are Glasgow Queen Street, Pitlochry and Edinburgh Waverley.

They are among 48 stations across the UK that have been chosen for the competition, which is hosted by the Rail Delivery Group.

The Kilmarnock Station Railway Heritage Trust has transformed the station building into a vibrant community village, offering services such as counselling, a model shop, and a gaming centre.

The competition, which will take place from October 14 to October 18, will focus on the businesses that make stations vital community hubs, driving local economies.

The winner will be announced on October 22.

Voting opens on Wednesday, October 16, at 8am and finishes at midnight.

Jacqueline Starr, chief executive officer of Rail Delivery Group, said: "Local businesses in stations up and down the country are proving to be at the very heart of the communities they serve, and we want to shine a light on the very best stations in England, Scotland, and Wales.

"All of the stations nominated are making a positive impact on their local community, and the variety of businesses at stations is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the staff, as well as the importance placed on supporting local businesses."

Last year’s competition saw more than 72,000 votes cast across 12 heats, with Wemyss Bay in Scotland taking the crown.

This year, stations from all over the UK will compete, showcasing the best local businesses that the train stations more than just places to catch a train.

With 70 per cent of people agreeing that having a train station helps their local economy thrive, the competition highlights the importance of these local hubs.

To vote for your winner you can visit here.