Belvoir Rail has strengthened its ties with the armed forces community through its recent support of the British Army's REME Rugby team.
REME stands for the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, a corps within the British Army responsible for keeping military equipment operational, from vehicles and weapons to advanced electronic systems. Many of its soldiers also take part in competitive sport, with rugby playing a key role in building teamwork, discipline and resilience.
As part of its support, Belvoir Rail has proudly contributed to the team’s recent tour to South Africa, helping cover the costs of what was a landmark opportunity for the players to represent the Corps abroad.
REME Rugby Vice Chair, Major Lloyd Morgan said “The assistance with the tour to SA is invaluable and something greatly appreciated by all in the REME Rugby League squad and the wider corps. Looking good can make you feel good, and we aim to play how we look. Thank you Belvoir Rail”
The company has also provided personalised Player of the Match belts for their inter-corps competition – individually engraved awards given to standout players after each fixture, offering a unique and lasting form of recognition.
For many in the team, this kind of recognition would not have been possible without external support.
"The belts mean a lot to us as individuals and a Corps” said Head Coach S.Sgt Liam Butterworth from the REME Rugby team. “They are not just keepsakes, they are a reminder of a great performance, selection and being recognised by your opposition. We would not be able to provide these ourselves, so the support from Belvoir Rail really makes a difference. Being able to wear them proudly and striving for the opportunity to represent again is a great feeling."
WO1 ASM Andrew Sheldon added:
“REME Rugby League extends its sincere gratitude for their generous sponsorship and support. Thanks to their contribution, we were able to purchase high-quality team clothing for our recent overseas tour of South Africa. Their support played a vital role in helping us maintain a professional appearance throughout the visit, positively representing both our team and Corps on the international stage.”
Our support may be small, but it has real impact. Each player who earns the Player of the Match title receives a bespoke belt, engraved with their name – a personal keepsake and lasting recognition of their hard work. This is something the team could not have funded themselves, and it truly matters.
As a company, our connection to the armed forces runs deep. Several of our team members are proud ex-service personnel, and some of our employees have family members who have also served. Supporting REME Rugby is not only a way for us to give back, but also a way to honour those links and recognise the skills and values that service life builds. These are qualities we value highly at Belvoir Rail.
Belvoir Rail Managing Director, James Brown, said:
“As a veteran myself, I know how much it means to feel supported by the wider community. We are proud to back the REME Rugby team and stand with our armed forces community. Their commitment and values are an inspiration and we are honoured to play a small part in recognising their efforts.”
After a successful tour, REME won all of their games and it has left lasting memories for all involved.
Through our partnership with REME Rugby, we hope to continue shining a light on the achievements of the armed forces, on and off the pitch.