London Waterloo played host to the Armed Forces as the Royal British Legion held a socially-distanced London Poppy Day launch at the station.
The event saw armed forces personnel attend alongside volunteers to raise money for the Poppy Appeal. Chief of the Defence Staff General Sir Nick Carter attended and spoke to Network Rail staff including station interface manager Barry Kitchener.
Barry said: “It was a privilege to introduce General Sir Nick to station staff at Waterloo.
“While it was very different event this year, the cause is one which is close to my heart and I hope lots of money is raised for the Poppy Appeal.”
Cem Davis, Waterloo Station manager, said: “We were thrilled at London Waterloo to host the Royal British Legion on London Poppy Day.
“Our staff have played their part in ensuring key workers continued to get to their jobs and worked tirelessly to help passengers travel safe so it was an honour to explain to General Sir Nick how we have helped to keep the country moving.”
Claire Rowliffe, director of fundraising at the Royal British Legion said: “Whether you are travelling into London or working from home, please pick up a poppy from our collectors at Network Rail stations or visit The Royal British Legion website where there are all sorts of ways that people can take part remotely.
“The money we raise will support members of the Armed Forces community from all generations who are facing new hardships as a result of Covid-19 such as social isolation, financial difficulties and unemployment, losing loved ones or facing the threat of homelessness. That’s why this year every poppy counts.”
There was a range of cash-free ways for the public to donate at the station today including QR codes, text to donate, and contactless devices, to ensure the safety of those collecting and those choosing to give in person.
Poppy Day collections are also taking place at other Network Rail Southern Region stations: Cannon Street, Victoria and London Bridge and people can still buy poppies in person at supermarkets.
Photo credit: Network Rail
For today’s rail news from railbusinessdaily.com click here.
