Northern Rail Best of the Worst

Apparently Northern Rail (the unreliable, crowded, filthy, decrepit service I use) was named 'Carrier of the Year' or something. The conductor announced it this morning but doubtfully heard the titters, guffaws and sighs of disbelief from the passengers.

Northern Rail has been voted public transport operator of the year in the National
Transport Awards 2007.
The judges praised the company, which runs local and regional trains across the
north of England, for its success in attracting 20% more passengers since it started in
2004.

Uh huh. So, where's that extra capacity then? 20% more passengers yet fewer trains and fewer carriages. And er, wouldn't those numbers have more to do with relaxing restrictions on bikes? Or maybe the volume of homes built in areas outlying Manhchester?

Press Release