GWR’s REACH Network Celebrates 60 Years of Notting Hill Carnival at Paddington

A steel pan band, shared stories and a celebration of culture, community and inclusion at London Paddington.

In August, customers and colleagues at London Paddington were welcomed by the sound of a steel pan band, brought to the station by GWR to mark 60 years of Notting Hill Carnival.

The celebration was hosted by GWR’s REACH network (Recognising Ethnicity and Cultural Heritage) as a tribute to the culture, community and inclusion the Carnival has championed throughout its history. Team Paddington colleagues joined in, flower garlands were worn, and phones came out to capture the moment.

REACH also handed out goody bags, but the real focus was conversation. Members of the network took the time to share stories and experiences with customers and colleagues alike, which is exactly what a celebration like this is for.

Colleagues and customers gather around a steel pan band on the concourse at London Paddington during the celebration

A member of Team Paddington and attendees wearing flower garlands at the REACH celebration event.

More about employee networks at GWR

REACH is one of GWR’s employee networks, and cultural events such as Carnival are part of its calendar. Find out more about how REACH advances Black, Asian and ethnic minority talent at GWR, or read how GWR championed Race Equality Week.

GWR’s networks are open to all colleagues. To see what belonging looks like in practice, explore Belonging at GWR, Women in Rail at GWR and Culture and Inclusion at GWR.

Thinking about a career on the railway? Visit the GWR employer profile to see current vacancies.