The World Cup of Stations makes a return next week with Richmond Station being nominated for the 'station with the best local business' crown.

Each year the tournament, organised by the Rail Delivery Group, celebrates great stations all across the UK.

48 stations have been shortlisted this year to battle it out head-to-head in a public vote which opens from 14-16 October.

In this year's World Cup of Stations the train company aims to celebrate the 'incredible' local businesses on the doorstep of the stations, connecting communities.

The independent children's bookshop just of off George Street on Church Court has been at the heart of the community for nearly a decade.

The Alligator's Mouth told Nub News: "While most of our customers are local to the area, we are so lucky to be near Richmond Station as people come from across London - quickly down from Waterloo, Clapham and Putney, around from the north on the Overground/Mildmay Line, and via the Underground District Line.

"Seven platforms in all, connecting us with the heart and environs of one of the greatest cities in the world."

Visit The Alligator's Mouth on 2a Church Court, Richmond TW9 1JL (credit: Cesar Medina).

If Richmond Station gathers the most votes then it will advance to the the semi-final on Thursday 17 October, followed by the final on 18 October and the winner will be announced on 21 October.

National Chair at the Federation of Small Businesses, Martin McTague, said: "Railway stations up and down the country are home to a huge range of small firms, serving their local community, regular commuters and day trippers on a daily basis.

"These businesses contribute such a lot to our local economies and are a great source of employment. Not only do railway stations house an array of businesses, they are vital for providing visitors with easy access to local high streets, upping footfall and fostering trade. 

"This competition is a great way to shine a light on the excellent and varied small firms based in and around transport hubs across the UK, showcasing the products and services they have to offer."

Voting opens on Monday, 14 October. To find out more about how to vote, click here.

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