The St Austell Brewery Charitable Trust has donated six specialist jackets to the West Cornwall Search and Rescue Team (WCSAR), helping to equip new volunteers.
The jackets, designed to withstand the harshest elements the team often face, will be used by 13 new recruits currently undergoing training with WCSAR. Once qualified, these volunteers will be on call 24/7, 365 days a year, ready to respond to incidents across the TR postcode area.
Founded in 2003 as the Cornwall Rescue Group, WCSAR was established to relieve pressure on Devon-based teams. Today, its volunteers range in age from their mid-20s to mid-70s, united by a commitment to helping others in times of crisis.
The donation was made possible by the St Austell Brewery Charitable Trust, which has been supporting charities, communities, and individuals in need across the South West since 2003. To date, the trust has raised more than £1 million which has benefited the communities in which St Austell Brewery operates its pubs and two breweries, in Cornwall and near Bath.
“We’re proud to support West Cornwall Search and Rescue Team, a charity that plays a critical role in keeping our communities safe,” said Piers Thompson, external affairs director at St Austell Brewery.
“As one of the region’s largest employers, we’re deeply rooted in Cornwall and passionate about supporting causes that make a real difference locally. These volunteers give their time selflessly, often in dangerous conditions, and we’re pleased to help ensure they have the right equipment to carry out their life-saving work.”
Andy Brelsford, chair of West Cornwall Search and Rescue Team, added: “These jackets will make a real difference to our team, ensuring that our volunteers stay warm, dry, and protected while responding to incidents in all weather conditions across Cornwall. Support from local businesses like St Austell Brewery helps us continue to provide a vital service to our community.”
In 2024 alone, the trust raised more than £150,000. Recent beneficiaries have included Young Lives vs Cancer, Great Western and Cornwall air ambulances, the Royal Cornwall Hospital Trust, and The Cornwall Bicycle Project CIC.
