National Express will once again be showing its support for the Armed Forces community as it gets behind the Royal British Legion’s annual poppy appeal to help raise both funds and awareness.

As an official partner of the charity, the leading public transport operator will be backing this  year’s campaign to pay special tribute to the men and women who served in the Second World War and remember the sacrifice made by so many 75 years ago.

The iconic white fleet of coaches will proudly bear the poppy logo as the vehicles travel up and down the UK during November.

Customers will be encouraged to donate directly with messaging on coach and bus websites and social media channels as well as having the option to add £1 to their payment when they book coach travel.

For two weeks, tickets issued across the National Express West Midlands network of 1,600 buses will display a text number so passengers can easily donate to the poppy appeal.

On Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day the annual two minutes’ silence will be observed on coaches, buses, and in stations and depots where possible and safe to do so.

Tom Stables, Managing Director of National Express UK, said: "I’m proud that we are continuing to support this great cause, particularly at such a difficult time.

“It’s a privilege to be able to carry the poppy logo on our vehicles and I’m sure our customers will help with fundraising where they can. We’ve raised over £35,00 in the last 5 years and hope we can add to this figure again.”

Ben France, Head of Corporate Partnerships at The Royal British Legion, commented: “2020 has been a challenging year for the Legion, as it has been for everyone.

“We’re hugely grateful for the support of partners like National Express, who ensure we can continue to help the Armed Forces community during these tough times.

“Whether proudly displaying the poppy on their coaches over the Appeal, or giving customers and colleagues new ways to donate, National Express are joining us to remember the sacrifice many have made and continue to make for our nation.”

National Express has recently been recognised by the Ministry of Defence who have revalidated its Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold award for five years. The highly coveted Gold award is given to businesses that are exemplary supporters of the Armed Forces Covenant - a promise from the nation that those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces, and their families, are treated fairly.