Remembrance: Free rail travel for armed forces and veterans

This offer applies to those travelling to Remembrance Sunday services on November 9 and includes journeys to any London terminal station on Saturday, November 8 or Sunday, November 9, with return travel permitted on Remembrance Sunday only.

For services outside London, free return travel will be available on Sunday, November 9.

The scheme also extends to Royal British Legion volunteers and collectors travelling to and from London Poppy Day on Thursday, October 30, with travel permitted on October 29, 30, or 31.

Jacqueline Starr, executive chair and CEO at Rail Delivery Group, said: "As we celebrate 200 years of rail, it is only right that the industry reflects on the vital role it played in our nation’s war efforts.

"The railway has always been closely connected to Remembrance, with so many rail workers themselves having given their lives during the World Wars.

"Today, we are proud to continue that connection by helping serving personnel, veterans, and volunteers attend the services and events that mean so much to them."

The offer is open to serving military personnel in uniform or with a valid MOD90 Ministry of Defence ID card.

Veterans can travel for free with a Veterans Railcard, Veterans Oyster card, MOD-issued Veterans ID, or other appropriate proof of service.

The scheme marks the bicentenary of the railway and the 80th anniversary of VE Day, both of which highlight the critical role railways have played during periods of conflict.

During the First World War, Preston Station operated a 24-hour buffet for servicemen.

London Paddington became a key evacuation hub during the Second World War, including for children arriving through the Kindertransport scheme.

Transport secretary Heidi Alexander said: "Remembrance services are a vital time for our country to come together, reflecting on the sacrifices made and honouring those who continue to protect our way of life.

"Free train travel will help make it easier for veterans and serving personnel to take part in those moments of national reflection.

"It is only fitting that the rail industry, which played such a significant role in our nation’s war effort, marks these occasions by paying tribute to those who gave their lives and those who still serve today."

The Royal British Legion has also welcomed the scheme.

Lucy Inskip, director of the Poppy Appeal at the Royal British Legion, said: "We would like to thank the UK’s rail companies for continuing to honour Remembrance by offering free rail travel to veterans and serving personnel each year.

"We’re also grateful that they continue to offer their support for London Poppy Day by allowing our volunteers to do their vital work at no additional personal cost."

Royal British Legion volunteers must present a collector’s ID card to qualify for free travel to and from London Poppy Day.