It’s two in two for IRO degree student Alex Hellier, who scooped the prestigious Parsons Brinckerhoff (PB) sponsored essay prize for the second year running, at the Institution of Railway Operators (IRO) annual lunch today (Friday 25 April) in Birmingham. 
The prize, which was started in 2007 by PB to recognise the rising stars of the railway industry, takes the form of a cheque for ?500 for the best essay written by a student undertaking the IRO degree or diploma courses run by Glasgow Caledonian University. 
This year’s entrants were asked to write a paper of between 4,000 and 5,000 words under the title: “Compare and contrast the operational benefits of both ERTMS and mainland European integrated timetabling practice.  Suggest which of these is likely to provide the best outcome for end users.”
Having previously won the 2007 title, Alex impressed the judges again this year with the exceptionally high standard of his entry.  He was presented with his prize at the annual luncheon by PB director of rail, Julian Garratt. 
Julian Garratt from PB said:  “We are extremely pleased that Alex has been successful in winning this award for a second time.  He presented a very readable paper that was easy to understand even for the non-technical, and the achievement of impressing the judges not once, but twice, speaks volumes about his commitment and obvious passion for the rail industry.   
“PB is delighted to play a role in encouraging IRO students to excel, and will continue to show its support through the sponsorship of the PB sponsored essay competition.” 
A panel of academics and senior industry figures, including Modern Railways correspondent Roger Ford, selected the winner.   
Chris Daughton of the IRO said: “We are delighted to participate in the annual essay award in partnership with Parsons Brinckerhoff.  The IRO was established to promote understanding and learning amongst railway professionals in key areas of sound railway management. Through our degree and diploma courses we offer students a transferable academic qualification, which will inevitably boost career prospects. The essay award was designed to further reward fresh thinking and talent within the student body and it will undoubtedly help Alex as he progresses his railway career.”