Unions have reacted with disbelief to news that the owners of Southern Railway have been shortlisted for a community award.

Govia Thameslink Railway is in the running for a Passengers Matter accolade in a competition run by the Association of Community Rail.

Southern services have been disrupted for months because of staff shortages and industrial action in a long running dispute over the role of conductors.

Rail, Maritime and Transport union general secretary Mick Cash said: "The only 'hard work and community dedication' going on at Southern Rail is from the frontline staff who are being attacked and undermined by the company bosses at every turn.

"They are the unsung heroes and heroines who have fought tirelessly to defend safety, services and access to rail for all against a torrent of smears and abuse from the GTR dirty tricks machine.

"The idea that the company top brass, who have systematically run the Southern Rail routes into the ground, could be considered for a Passengers Matter accolade is way beyond satire. These are the highly-paid mob responsible for axing guards, closing ticket offices and throwing the catering trolleys off the trains."

The awards, being announced later this month, celebrate community projects.

A Southern spokesman said: "These awards recognise the hard work and achievements of the individuals and local community groups who voluntarily give up their time to brighten up stations for everyone to enjoy.

"Station partnerships such as the Aldingbourne Trust, an organisation which helps adults with learning difficulties, make a real difference by planting and tending floral displays.

"Other partnerships include schools, nurseries, resident groups and local businesses. All give freely of their time and energy and deserve to be recognised. Mick Cash should hang his head in shame trying to link a futile industrial dispute to the fantastic work done by our community partners."