Veterans take special poppy wreath on train journey across UK
The wreath was gradually filled in by veterans working for Avanti as it stopped at 12 stations
A group of veterans who work for a train operator have helped to build and transport a special poppy wreath which has travelled across the UK.
Veterans working for Avanti West Coast have joined the Royal British Legion to individually decorate a plain wreath with poppy posies as it went on a train journey between Glasgow and London.
Ahead of Remembrance Sunday, the wreath began its journey in Glasgow and was gradually filled in by veterans working for Avanti as it stopped at 12 stations along the route.
It travelled on a special poppy-decorated train called “unknown soldier”.
Regional operations manager at Avanti Paul Williams, who served in the British Army Reserve for 38 years between 1985 and 2023, drove the train between Preston and Coventry.
He said: “Serving in the Army reserves in a variety of roles alongside my career in the railway is a daily reminder to myself of what can be achieved through strength and resilience.
“This journey is such an important tribute for those who have lost their lives in service and to those who continue to fight for their country.
“Having the opportunity to drive the train for part of the journey and seeing fellow colleagues from our veterans network pay their respects at stations along the way was a true honour.”
On arrival at London Euston station, the train was welcomed by a collection of Network Rail colleagues and other representatives from the Royal British Legion.
The fully adorned wreath was laid at the station’s memorial.
A replica wreath will be laid at the Cenotaph on Remembrance Sunday.
Managing director of Avanti West Coast Andy Mellors said: “This journey demonstrates the strong connection between rail and the military, by uniting together veterans and serving personnel from the communities along our route.
“It is an honour to recognise our colleagues who have served for their country through the veterans network and to see what they have achieved today through this poignant tribute.”