A railway station has been shortlisted in a contest to be Britain’s best station.

Watford Junction will feature in the first ever ‘World Cup of Stations’, which is will go live today in a new three-round Twitter tournament.

The online poll gives people a chance to have their say on different stations’ architecture, impact on the community, and the experience it provides for people.

In the east of England, St Albans City, Chelmsford and Cambridge stations join Watford Junction on the shortlist.

Vicki Pipe, of All the Stations, said: "From huge terminals to the remote request stops and single platforms in the countryside, we know how important railway stations are for communities - creating opportunities and bringing people together.

“We love that stations are the beating heart of Britain, and we’re excited to see which one comes out on top as the nation’s favourite.”

The regional group stage, running from Thursday to Sunday, will see the four busiest stations in 11 regions across the country battle it out for local bragging rights.

Next Monday’s semi-final will whittle the field down to a final four, with the winner on Tuesday crowned the nation’s favourite station.

The tournament will begin on the Twitter page of the Rail Delivery Group, which represents the rail industry.

It is part of Stations Day, where Britain’s railway will be celebrating the nation’s 2,563 rail stations, promoting their role in the community and the people who work at them.

What do you think of Watford Junction being nominated? Email james.cowen@newsquest.co.uk