First wanted to do something special this year so worked with Aura Graphics to create the specially branded train to spread the message.
“We're doing all we can to help the appeal through collections at our stations and we're honoured that one of our trains now bears the poppy symbol,” enthuses First’s customer services director, Keith Jipps.
Aura Graphics used 3M’s Controltac Graphic Film to carry out the application, which was completed in two days by two contractors at the Hornsey railway maintenance depot in London.
We're doing all we can to help the appeal through collections at our stations and we're honoured that one of our trains now bears the poppy symbol”
The Lord Lieutenant of Hertfordshire, Lady Verulam, unveiled the Poppy Express plaque, before guests including the town Mayor, leader of the Council and chairman of the County Council hopped on board for a reception.
Launching the Hertfordshire Poppy Appeal was Corporal Kemp from Unit 36 Engineer Regiment, who was shot in the ankle in Afghanistan in 2010.
During his year away from the forces, the Royal British Legion offered support and advice to help him recover—something he celebrated in style last year by running 100 miles from the monument in Stafford to Hemel Hempstead, raising £20,000 for the Hertfordshire Poppy Appeal in the process.
Natasha Robertson, Hertfordshire Poppy Appeal community fundraiser, was also delighted to have secured such a platform on which to promote the fundraising effort.
She added: “To have our own Poppy Train is wonderful. The train will help to highlight the services we provide at the Legion throughout the Poppy Appeal and beyond.”