Commuters had a special surprise today as the Capital was painted red for London Poppy Day - a stalwart of the Remembrance calendar for the Royal British Legion’s annual Poppy Appeal.
Tube stations including Leicester Square, Piccadilly & Covent Garden were awash with tri-service uniformed and civilian personnel who were joined by hundreds of veterans and volunteers all eager to generate public support for the Forces.
More than 400 volunteers from 18 different RAF units have joined colleagues from across the armed forces to make this day a success. This year’s event welcomes both first-time volunteers and many familiar faces who return annually, inspired by the RBL’s mission to support those currently serving and veterans .
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Harv Smyth, was also in attendance this morning and personally distributed poppies at Waterloo Station.
Air Chief Marshal Smyth at Waterloo
It was a pleasure to join veterans and serving personnel at Waterloo Station for London Poppy Day. All donations, no matter how small contribute to supporting our Armed Forces and their families who need our help now and in the future.
Air Chief Marshal Harv Smyth
Chief of the Air Staff
Also at Waterloo, eagle-eyed commuters may also have spotted the RAF Central band and the King’s Colour Squadron in a combined display of musical harmony. We also had TV personality Robert Rinder lending support, and a team abseiled from the roof watched by enthralled onlookers.
Volunteers are collecting donations across many locations, with collections running from 7am to 7pm. But the Poppy Appeal is not just about a single day. RAF personnel will continue to volunteer alongside RBL supporters across the nation in the coming weeks.
The Central Band of the RAF and King's Colour Squadron
Remembrance events will culminate on Sunday 9th November with RAF personnel taking place in parades, ceremonies and commemorations across the nation and abroad.