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Christmas Order Cut Off Date

Our Christmas order cut off date is fast approaching

Get your Christmas order in before 9th December to ensure you dont miss out on that perfect Christmas gift for your aviation and railway enthusiast loved ones!

If you have been eyeing some of our products as Christmas gifts (and why wouldnt you be?) make sure your order reaches us by the 9th December. That way we can ensure your gift gets processed and sent out in time for the big day.

This is particularly important if you are looking to buy any personalised items. This will allow time for us to mockup and refine your designs!

Share the GDMK Images Christmas order cut off date with your family and friends  …. thanks!

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The British 14th Army: A Tribute to Forgotten Heroes

XIVth Army Never Forgotten Bottle Green Polo Snippet

The British 14th Army: A Tribute to Forgotten Heroes

The British 14th Army are often overshadowed in the stories of World War II history. I created this commemorative design to commemorate the significant contributions the XIVth Army made to the Allied victory.

Family Links

I have 2 close relatives who served in the Far East theatre of operations in World War 2. I have always wanted to commemorate their struggles.

One relative was a Leading Aircraftman in the RAF and was captured by the Japanese literally days after they launched their surprise invasions. He was in a POW camp near Nagasaki when the bomb went off and wasn’t liberated until the end of August 1945.

The other was the leader of a mortar platoon who saw action from the very start to the end of the campaign including action at Imphal.

This blog post to announce the ‘Never Forgotten’ design commemorates and honours their bravery and resilience.

The Burma Campaign: An Overview

If you have little knowledge of the Burma Campaign, here is a brief overview.

The Burma Campaign was a series of gruelling battles fought in what was then, the British colony of Burma, now Myanmar, from December 1941 to August 1945. It was one of the longest and most difficult campaigns of world War 2.

The Burma campaign began with a swift and brutal invasion by the Japanese forces. The British Army was quickly pushed back into India. The surprise Japanese attack and its swiftness, marked a low point for the British forces and was seen as a humiliating defeat. It did however, set the stage for a remarkable comeback.

Burmese Terrain

The terrain in Burma posed a formidable challenge. Soldiers had to navigate through dense jungles, cross steep mountains, and endure heavy monsoon rains that made movement of men and supplies almost impossible for months on end. These harsh environmental conditions tested the mettle of even the most hardened soldiers.

The ferocity of the Japanese soldiers added another layer of difficulty. Unlike their German counterparts, who (mostly) adhered to a code of conduct in warfare, the Japanese were feared for their merciless tactics and stubborn determination to attack even in the face of devastating losses. They showed little regard for the rules of war, often treating prisoners of war with extreme cruelty.

Despite these challenges, the British 14th Army regrouped and launched a counter-offensive. The turning point came in 1944 at the Battles of Imphal and Kohima. Here, the 14th Army, despite being outnumbered, managed to halt the Japanese advance into India. This victory marked a high point in the campaign and was a huge achievement for the 14th Army.

The Forgotten Army: Origin of the Title

The term “Forgotten Army” was first used by the army’s commander, Lieutenant General William Slim, during a speech in 1945. He felt that the 14th Army’s efforts were overlooked as their campaign was overshadowed by other events in the war, such as the Normandy landings.

This forgotten tag was reinforced in the troops minds upon their eventual return to the UK. Many didn’t return to UK shores until mid 1946. By this time, the euphoria of winning the war in Europe had subsided. Peoples minds were on recovering from 6 years of war on the home front and the incredible rebuilding program that was needed.

Upon their arrival there was very little fanfare, flag-waving or ceremony. Indeed a common theme I heard from veterans was that only the Salvation Army were there to receive them as they disembarked the troop ships.

My Commemorative Tribute

  • XIVth Army Never Forgotten Seal Grey Fleece

    Fourteenth Army Never Forgotten Fleece Jacket

  • XIVth Army Never Forgotten Green Gold Hoodie

    Fourteenth Army Never Forgotten Hoodie

  • XIVth Army Never Forgotten Bottle Green Polo Snippet

    Fourteenth Army Never Forgotten Polo Shirt

  • Forest Green Zip Neck Fleece Never Forgotten v6

    Fourteenth Army Never Forgotten Zip Neck Fleece

To honour the bravery and sacrifice of the British 14th Army, I created an embroidered design featuring the ubiquitous ‘Slouch’ hat worn by the troops resting on the words ‘Never Forgotten’. 

The design is available on our full range of clothing, making it an ideal gift for history enthusiasts or for those with a personal connection to the 14th Army.

The British 14th Army played a crucial role in World War II, but their story is often overlooked. I’d like my design to serve as a tribute to these brave soldiers, ensuring that the “Forgotten Army” will be remembered for generations to come.

Thanks for reading

Gary

Share These Never Forgotten Garments with Your Military History Enthusiast Family and Friends … Thanks!!

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Depot Memories Laser Etched Slate Wall Signs

TE Memories 35 x 25 Slate

A Nostalgic Tribute to British Rail Depots

The GDMK Images and J.A.M. Arts collaboration has another very special design for you.

We are excited to introduce our Depot Memories Laser Etched Slate Wall Signs.

These designs are a unique piece of railway memorabilia paying homage to the legendary British Rail depots we remember from our younger days.

What Is Included in the Depot Memories Design?

A 35cm x 25cm slate plaque with a laser etched design featuring the diesel locomotives associated with select British Rail depots. The intricate design includes laser engraved line drawing fronts of the diesel loco classes allocated to each depot over the years.

Alongside these detailed engravings, you’ll find the steam shed code, BR Tops code, and even the depot mascot (where applicable).

This attention to detail makes these wall sign a fantastic gift for anyone who cherishes the rich history of railways and wants to rekindle great memories of their favourite railway depot.

Which BR Depots Are Available?

The series has launched with the following depots available, with many more in design –

  • FP- Finsbury Park
  • LA – Laira
  • TE – Thornaby
  • TI- Tinsley

What Are The Designs Engraved On?

Engraved on slate, it’s important to note that slate signs are a natural product. As such, they will have marks and features that make each individual item unique. These characteristics add to the charm of the slate sign, making it a one-of-a-kind piece that will stand out on any wall.

A unique piece of railway history, the Depot Memories Laser Etched Slate Wall Signs are more than just a sign they are a tribute to the golden era of railways and a testament to the enduring appeal of the old British Rail depots!

My Favourite Depot Isnt Listed – What Do I Do?

We are busily making designs for many other depots – if you want a specific depot that is not yet available, please use the My Favourite Depot product and we will make the design up for you!

Share These Depot Memories Signs with Your Railway Enthusiast Family and Friends … Thanks!!

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Classic Military Aircraft Winter Clothing Set

630 Sqn Lancaster LE-J v6 Aircraft Navy Winter Set

Classic Military Aircraft Beanie Hat Scarf and Glove Winter Set

Calling all aviation enthusiasts looking for a stylish way to showcase your love for classic military aircraft.

With winter just around the corner, our new beanie hat, scarf, and glove winter sets will keep you warm during your visits to your favorite airfield.

Our exclusive Classic Military Aircraft Clothing designs feature iconic aircraft from around the world, allowing you to celebrate your aviation passion in style.

Stay Warm in Style

Our beanie hat, scarf, and glove winter sets are the perfect addition to any aviation enthusiast’s wardrobe.

Choose your favorite aircraft and have it beautifully embroidered on the beanie hat and scarf.

The gloves are available in small, medium, and large sizes, ensuring a comfortable fit for everyone.

Choose between navy blue or black colours.

A Wide Range of Aircraft Types

With our Classic Military Aircraft range, you have over 30 aircraft types to choose from including

  • World War 2 Fighters
  • World War 2 Bombers
  • Cold War Stalwarts
  • Vietnam War Standouts
  • Falklands War Legends
  • Desert Storm Specials
  • Modern and Contemporary newcomers

Each aircraft is meticulously embroidered with stunning detail, including the name of the plane.

If your favorite aircraft isn’t listed, don’t worry, simply select the ‘Request New Type’ option and we’ll create a design for you!

Feel truly connected to your favorite aircraft with our extensive range which ensures that there’s something for everyone!

High-Quality Materials for Maximum Comfort

We believe that comfort is just as important as style. That’s why our beanie hats are made from 100% soft touch acrylic, providing a cozy and warm feel.

The scarves are crafted from 100% polyester anti-pill Suprafleece®, ensuring durability and protection against the cold.

The gloves are also made from 100% polyester, offering flexibility and insulation. With our winter sets, you can stay warm without compromising on comfort or quality whilst enjoying your next airfield visit.

Exclusive Designs by ©GDMK Images

All the embroidered designs on our winter sets are created and copyrighted by ©GDMK Images. We take pride in offering exclusive and unique designs that you won’t find anywhere else.

Our attention to detail and commitment to quality ensure that each embroidery captures the essence of the aircraft, making it a truly special piece for any aviation enthusiast.

Order Now and Enjoy Free Shipping

To make your shopping experience even more convenient, all prices include shipping to Mainland UK addresses.

So you can order your favorite Classic Military Aircraft Beanie Hat Scarf and Glove Winter Set without worrying about additional costs.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to showcase your love for classic military aircraft while staying warm and stylish during the winter months.

Q/A:

  1. Can I request a specific aircraft or aircraft squadron markings that are not listed in the Classic Military Aircraft range?
    • Absolutely! We understand that everyone has their own favorite aircraft and squadrons. Simply select the ‘Request New Type’ option on your chosen garment, and we’ll create an appropriate design for you.
  2. Are the beanie hat, scarf, and glove sets available in different colors?
    • Currently, we offer these sets in navy blue or black.
  3. What materials are used for the beanie hat, scarf, and gloves?
    • The beanie hats are made from 100% soft touch acrylic, providing a cozy and warm feel. The scarves are crafted from 100% polyester anti-pill Suprafleece®, ensuring durability and protection against the cold. The gloves are also made from 100% polyester, offering flexibility and insulation.
  4. I have big hands – will the gloves be too small for me?
    • We offer the gloves in S, M and L sizes to ensure you have a suitable sized gloves for your hands. Select an appropriate size when ordering.

Thanks for reading and please dont hesitate to get in touch with any questions!

Stay Safe

Gary

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Cheers to Railway Enthusiasts: Discover the Perfect Gift in Our New Customisable Beer Glass Designs

Class 58 Keep Calm Pint Glass

Cheers to Railway Enthusiasts – 2 New Themed Pint Glass Designs Introduced To The GDMK Images Drinkware Range

Our new beer glass designs, created in collaboration with J.A.M. Arts, are fully customisable, allowing you to choose your favourite locomotive.

You can sup favourite brew from a pint glass adorned with the locomotive of your choice as we have every class from the humble Class 08 through to Class 92s, with an expanding selection of steam locomotive classes.

Aviation Fans, don’t despair as we are creating some fantastic aircraft artwork which will be available in this range shortly!

Onto the designs themselves.

Beer This Way

First up, we have “Beer This Way“, a playful design with your favourite loco positioned below a prominent arrow pointing towards the top of the glass, accompanied by the helpful instruction of “Beer This Way”!

Its the perfect way to enjoy enjoy a refreshing beverage after a long day at a Railway Gala or trainspotting session at your favourite railway location!

Keep Calm

Next, we have the “Keep Calm” design. Inspired by the iconic World War II “Keep Calm and Carry On” slogan, we have put a railway twist on the classic phrase.

In today’s hectic and stressful world it’s always nice to be reminded to chill out and find moments of relaxation. With this glass, you can relax and unwind with your favourite loco reminding you to keep calm and drink beer!

No Ordinary Drinkware – These Glasses are Railway Enthusiasts Drinkware!

These railway themed pint glasses are no ordinary drinkware; they are expressions of your love for railways. So, whether you’re treating yourself or searching for the perfect gift for a fellow railway enthusiast, these customisable designs are sure to bring joy and excitement to any railway lover’s collection. Cheers to celebrating your passion in style!

Remember to add your favourite loco number and colour scheme in the order notes so we can authentically recreate your favourite loco correctly!

Remember to always enjoy your beer responsibly!!!

Thanks for looking and don’t hesitate to comment below with your thoughts!!

Cheers

Gary

Share These Railway Enthusiast Beer Glasses with Your Railway Enthusiast Family and Friends … Thanks!!

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Your Guide to The Coolest Aviation and Railway Enthusiast Drinkware Gifts

Drinkware Guide Header

The Updated Enthusiasts Guide to the Coolest Drinkware Range

Read on to find details about the coolest drinkware range available to railway and aviation enthusiasts

Our overhaul of the drinkware range has been completed with the help of your fabulous feedback.

Our collaboration with J.A.M. Arts allowed creation of a unique and novel range of designs on laser-etched drinkware to complement our popular existing printed designs.

The GDMK Images drinkware range offers railway and aviation enthusiasts the following products –

Printed 

  • ceramic mugs (adults and kids sized)

Printed and Laser Etched –

  • travel mugs
  • water bottles
  • thermal flasks

Laser Etched –

  • beer glasses
  • shot glasses
  • whiskey glasses

Remember – almost all these products can be personalised.

Drinkware in Detail

Ceramic Mugs

The first product is the humble mug. We continue to offer our popular printed ceramic mugs in approx 10/11 oz std and 7 oz kids sizes.

Ceramic mugs are available with printed designs and are dishwasher resistant and microwave safe.

Water Bottles

There are several different types of travel mugs and water bottles available to enthusiasts. We sought user feedback for the different types to see if any particular type was more preferable and with this guidance in mind, selected the styles discussed in this guide.

Water bottles are becoming more and more popular. With healthy hydration and reducing single use drink cups and bottles having such a high media profile, we were not surprised to see these sentiments reflected in our feedback.

Although our standard water bottle style received very positive feedback, many people commented they would like to see handles for easier carrying and some form of built in straw.

Fortunately, we did find a water bottle with these features that printed and etched nicely.

The new water bottle with handle also features a flip up drinking spout connected to an integral straw. Fantastic – both preferences in one product!

Lastly, one of the most requested products is now available – bowling pin water bottles!

All water bottles are available with both printed and laser etched designs.

These water bottles should NOT be placed in dishwashers or microwaves!

Insulated Travel Mugs

We are sticking with our standard travel mugs. The feedback suggested that the flexibility of the travel mugs were more than adequate for the job, so why change anything?

Travel mugs are available featuring all our printed and laser etched designs.

New Thermal Flasks

We haven’t offered thermal flasks before. We have added these useful products to the range and made them available with all our printed and laser etched designs. The thermal flasks are great for keeping your hot drinks hot and cold drinks cold! Perfect whatever time of year you are travelling!

These Flasks and Travel Mugs should NOT be placed in dishwashers or microwaves!

Laser Etched Glassware.

We are delighted to confirm an enhanced range of glass drinkware in response to the feedback we received.

Beer Glasses

The trusty beer glass is a staple for many railway and aviation enthusiasts, so we have some great designs on both full pint and 1/2 pint glasses.

Shot Glasses

Toast your friends in style with our shot glasses complete with a cool railway or aviation design!

Whiskey Glasses

Keep an eye out for our soon to be announced laser etched whiskey glasses, perfect for savouring those quiet moments!

Personalisation

You can personalise the core elements of almost every design in our range.

Product Features You Can Personalise

  • Loco/Aircraft Number
  • Loco/Aircraft Colour Scheme
  • Add Specific Markings/Mascots/Codes
  • Add Personalised Messages

What better way to truly enjoy a brew, pint or quiet reflective drink than with a gift featuring your favourite loco or aircraft!

Select any of these products to see how easily you can personalise them!

Drinkware Questions?

Dont hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions about our drinkware range or the personalisation process!!

Thanks for reading

Gary

Share These Drinkware Gift Ideas with Your Family and Friends … Thanks!!

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Personalised Railway Window Label Metal Signs and Fridge Magnets

Plymouth - York Window Label with Class 45

Introducing Another Great Design For Your Railway Collection: Personalised Railway Window Label Metal Signs and Fridge Magnets!

Are you a railway enthusiast who misses the great bashing days of the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s?

Do you remember those carriage door window labels showing the calling points and destination for normal passengers?

If so, we have an exciting announcement for you!

We are thrilled to introduce our latest product design, the Personalised Railway Window Label Metal Signs and Fridge Magnets!

These new signs and fridge magnets are the perfect complement to your railway memorabilia collection!

Drawing from an extensive archive of original window labels, we have painstakingly recreated them on sturdy metal signs and delightful fridge magnets.

The metal signs are slightly smaller than the original paper labels but faithfully retain the same size ratio as the originals, evoking a sense of nostalgia and authenticity.

Find Your Favourite Routes and Locomotives

With our personalised window labels, you have the opportunity to create a truly unique and personalised gift for your railway collection. Here’s how it works:

  1. Choose Your Route: Designs are ordered based on the old BR Table Number system – i.e. Waterloo – Exeter services are under Table 145.
  2. Each product has options for the various services that worked within the timetable section.

What Size Are The Railway Destination Window Signs?

There are two sizes

  • The Standard Signs are approx 400mm x 100mm
  • The Enhanced Signs including loco are approx 405mm x 140mm
  • Fridge magnets are approx 150mm x 38mm

Personalisation Options

But that’s not all!

As you may know, we offer fully customisable designs for all our gifts, and these Personalised Railway Window Label Metal Signs and Fridge Magnets are no exception.

You can opt for –

  • Standard Replica Window Label, faithfully capturing the original design.
  • Alternatively, choose a design that showcases the window label alongside a side profile drawing of the locomotive type typically allocated to the specific service.

You have complete freedom to personalise your chosen design with your all-time favourite locomotive that you had on the service.

Why Would You Want A Personalised Railway Window Label Sign?

  • Tailored Just for You: customise your sign with your favourite route and locomotive, celebrating your unforgettable moves from back in the day.
  • High-Quality Material: Printed on high quality 0.5mm aluminium metal sheet.
  • Perfect for Display: Perfect for hanging in your home, office, railway room or man cave, our signs make for eye-catching displays that will impress your fellow railway enthusiasts.
  • Thoughtful Gift: Surprise your loved ones who share your passion for railways with a personalised metal sign that they will cherish.

Thanks for reading, don’t hesitate to let me know your thoughts on these new signs!

Cheers

Gary and Dawn

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Tell Us What You Want and Win Great Prizes

Competition Time Again!

As 2022 winds down its time to tell us what you want for a chance to win some great prizes!

Whats on Your Wishlist?

Entry is very simple – tell us your wish list of new designs and/or new product types you would like to see added to the website and we’ll add your name into a prize draw where you could win one of three great prizes!

We are interested to hear what you would really like to see on GDMK Images. Dont hold back, as we will be using the ideas to find new blank products, production equipment if necessary and create new designs that you really want to see!

What Can You Win?

There are three prizes up for grabs –

  1. Brand New Zip Neck Fleece with your choice of embroidered design
  2. Beanie Hat and Scarf with your choice of embroidered design
  3. Mug & Coaster set featuring the image of your choice

Best of Luck in the Competition!

We wish you the best of luck. 

January, February and March is trade show season and we will use the submissions as guidance to investigate new blank product lines at the shows. If at all practicable we will then look at adding them to the online shop!

You can rest assured that we are always looking for new and novel products to add our designs to and be the No1 source for Railway, Aviation enthusiasts.

Closing date is Sunday 15th January with winners being announced on Monday 16th January

Good luck

Gary

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New Laser Etched Drinkware Added to Shop

New Laser Etched Drinkware Added to Shop

This week we have launched our 1st design across our full range of laser etched drinkware.

The drinkware gifts added are –

This laser etched design is perfect for railway enthusiasts who want to recreate their favourite loco and includes –

  • The design features a lineart loco front
  • loco number
  • name if carried

We have most loco classes finished so you can enjoy your favourite drink from a receptacle featuring your favourite loco!

The loco fronts represent your chosen loco accurately in respect of having a split box, headcode panel or marker lights as per the real loco.

If your loco choice had multiple front looks during its service life, specify your desired fittings in the order notes.

If you choose a headcode fitted front then put your chosen headcode in the notes field and we’ll etch it into the headcode boxes!

Flasks

The 500ml flasks are double wall insulated and will keep your drink hot or cold for up to 6 hours and are extremely tough.

Water Bottles

Stay hydrated with the 500ml aluminium water bottle. Each drinks bottle features an integral drinking straw and retractable drinking spout.

Shot Glasses

60cl shot glasses. Enjoy that medicinal shot of your favourite spirit with a shot glass featuring your favourite loco!

Pint and 1/2 Pint Beer Glasses

The ever popular beer glass!

Drinkware Gifts Overhaul

Following on from these new additions, the entire drinkware range will undergo a revamp with new options.

More Laser Etched Designs Coming

Now our laser etching process has been fully fine tuned and the designs tidied up, we will be releasing more unique designs very shortly which will include the first new laser etched aviation designs.

Thanks for looking at these new designs and dont hesitate to get in touch with your thoughts!

Cheers Gary

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Laser Etched Gifts Now Available

D1011 35 x 25 Slate

Laser Etched Gifts Now Available

I am delighted to announce a new collaboration with J.A.M. Arts which opens up a whole new range of unique laser etched gifts.

GDMK Images and J.A.M. Arts Collaboration

I have long wanted to offer laser etched gifts and am really pleased to have the opportunity to work with J.A.M. Arts. We have been working for 4 or 5 months behind the scenes to create and fine tune some exciting exclusive designs for you.

We have been experimenting with some really interesting products and fine tuning the etching process to ensure we offer high quality products and designs.

You may have already seen the quality of our laser etched products via some of our trade customers as we have been supplying laser engraved products to the WLACFPSC50LA50027 Loco group306th Bomb Group, NSERS and others. 

We want to thank these trade partners for their advice, support and feedback during our development process as their insight and feedback was crucial in developing our approach to products and designs.

You will have also seen a small taste of our unique designs at the Barrow Hill 150+2 event where the new laser engraved gifts went down a storm.

Some Laser Etched Designs We Have Supplied to Our Trade Partners

What Laser Etched Designs Can You Expect

You can expect to see a selection of your favourite GDMK Images designs on our laser engraved gift products along with a large range of new and novel designs from our collaboration that Railway, Aviation and Military Vehicle enthusiasts wont have seen anywhere before!

A Taste Of What’s Coming in the GDMK Images/J.A.M. Arts Laser Etched Range

  • Glasses of varying types
  • Coasters
  • Slates
  • Keyrings
  • Hip Flasks
  • Lighters

A Sneak Preview of Some of the Upcoming Laser Etched Designs

Full Personalisation of Your Laser Etched Gifts

Many of the designs will allow you to fully personalise the design with your own wording and choice of locomotive/aircraft.

Each product will allow you to add your own words or phrases.

Thanks for reading and dont hesitate to let us know what you think of these laser etched products.

We would also love to hear about any product types or designs you would like to see!

Stay safe

Gary and Dawn