We’re delighted to announce that the St Austell Brewery Charitable Trust has generously donated six specialist waterproof jackets to West Cornwall Search & Rescue Team (WCSAR) — helping to equip our new volunteers with the essential gear they need to respond to emergencies across the region.

The jackets, designed to withstand the harshest elements, will be used by 13 new recruits currently 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, our volunteers — aged from their mid-20s to mid-70s — are united by one mission: to help others in times of crisis.

This donation was made possible by the St Austell Brewery Charitable Trust, which has been supporting charities, communities and individuals across the South West since 2003. The Trust has raised over £1 million to date, benefitting the communities surrounding St Austell Brewery’s pubs and breweries in Cornwall and near Bath.

“We’re proud to support West Cornwall Search & Rescue Team, a charity that plays a critical role in keeping our communities safe,” said Piers Thompson, External Affairs Director at St Austell Brewery. “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 WCSAR, added: “We’re incredibly grateful to St Austell Brewery for their generous donation. These jackets will make a real difference, ensuring that our volunteers stay warm, dry, and protected while responding to incidents in all weather conditions across Cornwall.”

In 2024 alone, the St Austell Brewery Charitable Trust raised more than £150,000, supporting causes such as Young Lives vs Cancer, Great Western and Cornwall Air Ambulances, Royal Cornwall Hospital Trust, and The Cornwall Bicycle Project CIC.

The Trust also provides grants to individuals needing life-enhancing support, such as mobility equipment and wheelchairs. Find out more or apply at staustellbrewery.co.uk/charitable-trust

At WCSAR, we rely entirely on donations and volunteer support to keep providing a vital, life-saving service for the people of West Cornwall — with no government funding and no paid staff. Our annual running costs exceed £15,000, so community support like this truly keeps us going.

🙏 Thank you, St Austell Brewery, for your continued support.

Want to help us too?
📦 Download our free Fundraising Pack and get involved: westcornwallsar.co.uk/support-us