A brand new Poppyscotland bus has been unveiled today (Thursday 29 October) on Edinburgh Poppy Day, marking the launch of the charity’s annual campaign.
Designed in partnership with Poppyscotland, the Lothian Buses’ double deck bus features a striking poppy-themed design and will help to raise awareness of the charity’s vital work supporting veterans and their families.
Gaynor Marshall, Communications Director for Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams, said:
“As one of the largest employers in the region, we’re incredibly proud to have many former servicemen and women among our colleagues at Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams. That gives our longstanding support for Poppyscotland and the Scottish Poppy Appeal a very special significance for us.
“We’re delighted to continue our partnership with Poppyscotland and play our part in raising awareness of the invaluable support it provides to veterans and their families.
“Our buses are seen across Edinburgh and the Lothians every day, so they provide a fantastic platform to share this important message.
“We hope the new design will encourage people to pause, reflect and show their support for this year’s Scottish Poppy Appeal.”
Leanne Bonner, Head of Scotland at Poppyscotland, said:
“With the unveiling of this year’s wonderful Lothian Buses poppy bus, we are reminded that the sacrifices of service extend far beyond the frontline, reaching deep into our local communities. We are incredibly grateful to Lothian Buses for their steadfast, continued support in bringing this message to the streets of Edinburgh and the Lothians.
“Partnerships like this ensure that military families receive the recognition and support they rightfully deserve. Every donation to the Scottish Poppy Appeal goes toward providing life-changing financial aid, housing support, employment advice, and mental health services to our veteran and service community here in Scotland.”
Veterans and active servicemen and women of the armed forces will also be invited to travel for free on board Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams on Remembrance Sunday (8 November) and Armistice Day (11 November) this year.
Both operators employ many former service personnel, and this year they are welcoming those in uniform or with an appropriate form of identification to travel for free across the network on these two days of national remembrance.
Two minutes’ silence will also be observed on both days by the operators, with bus and tram services pausing where safe to do so as a mark of remembrance.
