Ahead of Remembrance Day, Avanti West Coast has partnered up with Poppyscotland and the Royal British Legion to create and transport a wreath to London.

Veterans, reservists and volunteers will assemble a poppy wreath as it travels from Glasgow to London.

The train used has also been specially decorated by Alstom with the ends of Pendolino 390151 featuring a poppy design.

The train has also been named ‘Unknown Soldier’ and made 13 stops along the way to London, where veterans and Royal British Legion supporters will present posies of poppies.

Their hope is to highlight the railway’s connection to the military while encouraging donations to the Poppy Appeal.

Before departing Glasgow at 8 am, the plain wreath was decorated with its first tribute by an Avanti Veteran.

Numerous members from different organisations will join the train as it heads south, where it will be greeted with a welcome party at London Euston. The completed wreath will then be carried to the station’s memorial.

“The Poppy Express is a journey of remembrance, reflection, and gratitude – a moving tribute to those who have served and sacrificed for our democratic freedoms and way of life. We are deeply grateful for the continued support of passengers, partners, and colleagues at Avanti West Coast who make this special service possible. For over 100 years, remembrance has been part of the fabric of society – it continues to unite people across all backgrounds, communities and generations, and this journey allows us to celebrate the enduring spirit of remembrance that unites communities across the nation.”

Poppy Appeal Manager, Vicky Lawson, from the Royal British Legion