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Tuesday 21 Jun 2005

COVENTRY ATHLETES GIVEN A HIGHLY VISIBLE BOOST

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Athletes from Coventry Godiva Harriers will be racing safer with high visibility jackets donated to them by Network Rail. Marshals wore the surplus kit for the first time to guide participants at Midsummer Five run at Memorial park on Friday 24th June. Steve Derrick, Area General Manager, said: “Network Rail is committed to developing initiatives that will benefit the community and the environment. This scheme will benefit organisations like Coventry Godiva Harriers and avoid the needless waste of vital safety equipment”. As part of an environmental initiative, rail workers across the country have been collecting their surplus kit, including high visibility vests, jackets, body warmers and coats that were no longer needed, as the company has gradually introduced its own branded equipment. Rail staff use the equipment to remain safe and seen while at work rebuilding Britain’s railway. The reuse of this equipment is not only environmentally friendly but will provide valuable personal protective equipment (PPE) for over a hundred organisations. Nick Winch, Assistant coach for Coventry Godiva Harriers said: “The high visibility clothing means athletes can take part in this and other races safely. We are thrilled with the donation”.