The safety and visibility of volunteers working on the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway (GWSR) are paramount, especially for those maintaining the line between Cheltenham and Broadway. Thanks to a generous donation from Pulsar, the UK's leading supplier of personal protective equipment (PPE) to the rail industry, the GWSR’s infrastructure volunteers now have cutting-edge, high-visibility clothing designed to keep them safe on the job. The donated gear, worth nearly £2,500, is part of PULSAR®'s environmentally responsible PULSAR® Life collection, which is RIS-3279-TOM certified for the rail industry.
This donation was made possible following an approach by Jonathan Taylor, a member of the GWSR’s lineside drainage team, during the recent Rail Live event in Long Marston, Warwickshire. The new clothing includes hi-vis long-sleeved polo shirts, EN343 class 4:4 shell jackets, and certified stretch combat trousers, all of which were presented in a ceremony at GWSR’s Winchcombe station. Pulsar’s Sales Director was on hand to present the gear, joined by John Forkes, the railway’s Safety Officer, and Dr. Graham Plant, Civil Engineering Director responsible for the infrastructure volunteers.
Jonathan Taylor expressed his gratitude, saying, “In the past, we provided our own high-visibility clothing, but this new kit gives the team a professional edge. Working in all weather conditions, it's crucial that we stay safe, dry, comfortable, and visible. We’re extremely grateful to PULSAR® for this excellent gear. We’re often spotted and waved at by passengers on passing trains, and now they’ll be able to see us even more clearly!”
Dr. Graham Plant highlighted the importance of the donation, noting, “With the history of landslips along the railway, effective drainage is vital to maintaining the integrity of our embankments and cuttings. Our volunteers play a critical role in ensuring the stability of the railway, and this new clothing will certainly boost their efforts.”
David Smith of PULSAR® shared his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “As the leading supplier of high-performance, certified apparel to the rail industry, we’re delighted to support the GWSR. Being semi-local, it’s a natural fit for us to partner with this remarkable railway. It’s heartening to know that our donated gear will help keep the volunteers safe and protected year-round.”
Smith also expressed admiration for the railway, adding, “I’m amazed at how the GWSR is operated by so many dedicated volunteers with so few paid staff, yet it’s maintained to the highest standards. The challenges they’ve overcome, especially the work on the Stanway Viaduct, are truly impressive.”
Looking ahead, Smith hinted at future collaborations, including a planned photo shoot of PULSAR®’s latest collection of railway-certified apparel and equipment along the GWSR line.
