Published on: Tuesday, 22 October 2019
Last updated: Tuesday, 22 October 2019
Greater Anglia will join the rest of the rail industry in offering free train travel to Poppy Day collectors again this year.
Free travel will be available to authorised collectors travelling to London for 31st October for the city’s Poppy Day Appeal to collect funds on behalf of the Royal British Legion.
It is anticipated that there will also be collections taking place at rail stations across the rail network.
The railway, and its workers, played a crucial role in World War I. When Britain declared war on Germany, it was trains that enabled efficient movement of the British forces, and equipment, between France and the Home Front.
The trains transported troops, rations, coal, water and artillery across Britain and across Europe in a way never previously seen.
Over 100,000 UK railway workers enlisted when war first broke out. By the end of the war, 20,000 had tragically lost their lives. They are remembered in memorials across the country, with many situated at railway stations.
Jamie Burles, Greater Anglia's Managing Director said: "We're pleased to show our support for all those who serve or have served in the forces with free travel for the volunteers who work so hard to raise vital funds for the Royal British Legion. To everyone who serves, or has served, the rail industry salutes you.”