News from the World of GWR Modelling
Rail Replacement Service
Readers of the October issue of Great Western Star will remember the excellent layout “Truro (South Western) from Trevor Tremethick. At the end of the article, Trevor outlined some of the forthcoming developments and some of these have now been made possible by the COVID-19 Lockdown. As a result, the railway company has had to organise a “Rail Replacement” bus service!
PECO Recognised for Its Resilience in Face of Pandemic
Seaton’s iconic model railway business PECO has been acknowledged for its resilience in the face of the coronavirus pandemic. Insurance brokers Gallagher have launched a UK-wide initiative called “Tackling Tomorrow. Together” – aimed at supporting seven pioneering UK organisations that have shown tenacity and pioneering spirit during the Covid-19 crisis. PECO was selected to participate in the programme in recognition of their efforts and resilience during the pandemic. Covid-19 provided a huge challenge to PECO, with the factory closing for five weeks during the first lockdown. On top of this the 112
GREAT WESTERN STAR MAGAZINE
business also had to deal with a cyber attack. Despite these challenges, PECO has been up and running since last April. With Gallagher’s help, they have managed to fully recover, with demand currently outstripping their ability to manufacture some of the products. The family company, which started trading in 1946 and is now in its third generation, has been paired with top flight rugby clubs Bristol and Gloucester, who play in the Gallagher-sponsored Premiership. PECO, along with the other participating organisations, will be given opportunities to promote their business within their local communities with the aim of getting in front of new audiences January/February 2021
and potential customers. This includes in-stadia advertising such as big screen promotions and match programme adverts, regionspecific digital marketing and tickets to host a networking event when spectators are allowed to attend Premiership games again. PECO managing director Ben Arnold said: “PECO are delighted to be part of Gallagher’s “Tackling Tomorrow. Together” campaign. This past year has certainly brought many challenges but thanks to Gallagher’s help, particularly after being hit by the cyber-attack during the first Lockdown, we have been able to recover, and are proud to be keeping households engaged in their railway modelling interests and hobbies”
