Companies from across the UK rail industry came together at Newark Showground for this year’s Big Rail Diversity Challenge.

Now in its eleventh year, the event continues to grow in both scale and impact. It has become a firm fixture in the rail calendar, bringing together organisations from across the sector to champion inclusion, teamwork and collaboration.

As one of Women in Rail’s flagship annual events, the Challenge is the only team based rail event dedicated to showcasing the value of diversity. Teams took part in a wide range of activities designed to test communication, creativity and problem solving, with something for everyone to contribute.

Challenges on the day included the Catwalk Challenge, Silent Disco, Human Table Football, Shelter Building, Santa Pod Drag Race and the ever popular Diversity Dance Off. Each activity reinforced a simple message, diverse teams perform better when they work together.

Industry support and shared purpose

The event is supported by a wide range of industry bodies, organisations and charities.

The Railway Benefit Fund returned with its ‘Bring on the Beans’ challenge, where teams supported each other through an inflatable course while blindfolded. Railway Children challenged participants to build a one person shelter using only basic materials, highlighting the realities faced by vulnerable young people.

Alongside the activities, a Charity Tuck Shop and Hamper Raffle helped raise funds for the Women in Rail charity.

A strong message from Women in Rail

Kelly Warburton, Women in Rail Trustee, reflected on the day:

“It was a privilege to spend time with such inspiring people and teams from across the industry. At a time of significant change, it is clear we are strongest when we bring together different perspectives and make the most of the talent across the UK. This event is a powerful reminder of what we can achieve together and why the work of Women in Rail remains so important in building a more inclusive and forward looking industry.”

Celebrating teams and achievements

After a full day of activity, the winning teams were recognised:

• Best Team Name: ‘Equality Street’ from London Northwestern Railway and West Midlands Railway
• Capa Bubble Challenge Award, sponsored by Railpen: ‘Off the Rails with AtkinsRéalis’
• Bridging the Gap Challenge Award, sponsored by Greater Anglia: ‘Mind the Gap’ from Railpen
• Shelter Building Award: ‘In Rail We TRUst’ from Amey
• Bring on the Beans Award: ‘Signal Boost Squad’ from M Group

The overall Team of the Year, achieving the highest score of the day, was ‘GTR Titans’ from GTR.

Looking ahead to 2027

The official event photos will be available shortly on the The Big Rail Diversity Challenge 2026

If your organisation would like to take part next year, the 2027 event will take place on 16 June. Please contact wr@womeninrail.org