Yorkshire passengers encouraged to support the Poppy Express

Two veterans who served in the Royal Navy have been part of a team of volunteers for the Poppy Express. Andrew Wall, 59, and Pete Bolton, 76, have been working in a group of 15 volunteers to sell poppies on Northern trains. The Poppy Express was launched 11 years ago by veteran Denis Scaife, 75, and his wife Barbara, 76. The poppies help raise funds for the Royal British Legion, which supports Armed Forces personnel, veterans and their families. The two have stated that they have been overwhelmed by the support they have received from passengers, saying it has been especially heartwarming to see people join together. Andrew and Pete continue to appeal to passengers travelling on trains in Yorkshire to make donations and support the cause before Remembrance Day on the 11th November. Veterans and military personnel travelling on Northern services are reminded that they can attend remembrance services for free on the 8th November. There will be 12 services held at stations across Northern’s network, including at Manchester Victoria and Hull, and a further Railway Industry Remembrance Service in York on 11th November. Other operators are also offering free travel, including Chiltern Railways and Southeastern. “The reaction on board has been very positive, from the small children wanting to know what the poppy means, to the older generation with family that served in the Second World War, and the veterans who share stories about their service. It’s very humbling and heartwarming. “The train is great because we have a captive audience, but we don’t force people into buying poppies. There’s no need for that because the poppy sells itself. “We ask people to give whatever they can afford. It all goes to a really good cause – helping veterans and their families.” Andrew Wall “We’ve met some very generous people with great stories to share about their service or relatives who have served. “The Legion is fantastic because it looks after veterans and their families, but they need the funding to do this important work. “On Remembrance Day, it’s important to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice but also help the veterans who made it home. “I would urge everyone to make a donation, no matter how small, to help such a worthwhile cause. Every penny counts.” Pete Bolton