POPPY wreaths from Teignbridge were taken to London this morning on the annual Poppy Train service.

This year is the seventh Poppies to Paddington train operation on Armistice Day where Network Rail, in partnership with the Veterans Charity, organises collections of wreaths to be laid at the iconic war memorial at Platform 1 at Paddington Station.

Among them are wreaths from Dawlish which included contributions from the town council, represented by the Mayor Anne Heywood and Emma Nankervis, the Dawlish Branch of the Royal British Legion and the sea cadets.

Mayor of Dawlish Cllr Anne Heywood with representatives of GWR, Dawlish RBL and sea cadets handing over the wreaths to the Poppy Train on its way to Paddington Station on Armistice Day. Photo Bob Simpson
Mayor of Dawlish Cllr Anne Heywood with representatives of GWR, Dawlish RBL and sea cadets handing over the wreaths to the Poppy Train on its way to Paddington Station on Armistice Day. Photo Bob Simpson (MDA )

Cllr Heywood was presented with a wreath on behalf of Dawlish Community Crafters by Noreen Goodchild.

In Newton Abbot, members of Newton Abbot Royal British Legion Newton mayor Cllr Louise Cook and Teignbridge District Council chair Cllr Robert Steemson gathered at Newton Abbot Railway Station to present poppy wreaths bound for London.

The Poppy Train service began during the Covid 19 pandemic and has continued to run on November 11 ever since.

Members of the ArmedForces, veterans, railway colleagues and special guests observed a two-minute silence at the station at 1100 to honour those lost in past and present conflicts.

GWR Managing Director, Mark Hopwood CBE, said: ‘Poppies to Paddington is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by so many people, from across our communities and around the world, in the service of others.

‘We are proud that the railway can once again bring people together for this important Act of Remembrance, honouring the fallen and recognising the continuing contribution of our Armed Forces community.’

Network Rail Chief Executive, Jeremy Westlake, added: ‘The railway industry has a long and proud history of service, including the vital role it played during the First World War. As we mark 110 years since the Battle of the Somme, we are proud to honour those who served and sacrificed their lives.

‘For passengers travelling through and staff working at Paddington on the day, Poppies to Paddington provides an opportunity to pause, reflect and pay their respects.’