REGIONAL train operator c2c is offering free travel to service personnel and veterans travelling to and from Remembrance services this coming weekend.

Free travel on Sunday, 10 November and Monday, 11 November is available to service personnel travelling in uniform or with valid ID, as well as to veterans who are wearing their medals.

c2c Managing Director, Rob Mullen, said: "This is such a poignant time of year for service personnel and their families, many of whom will live on our route.

"Remembrance Sunday provides an opportunity for reflection and we take our commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant seriously.

"We are offering free travel to service personnel and veterans as a way to pay our respects to them and local railway staff who have served or made the ultimate sacrifice while defending our freedoms."

This year, service personnel once again gathered at Fenchurch Street station to raise funds for the Royal British Legion as part of its iconic London Poppy Day event.

Although final fundraising figures are yet to be announced, commuters from Essex and east London contributed thousands to the Legion's £1 million fundraising target.

The Royal British Legion's Poppy Appeal Manager for Essex, Laura Gibbs, said: "The Royal British Legion is so grateful to c2c for offering free train travel across Remembrance weekend for our Armed Forces community.

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"For over 100 years, Remembrance has been part of the fabric of society - it continues to unite people across all backgrounds, communities and generations. It is part of our nation's culture and means so much to so many people. We fully appreciate the support that is shown to those that would like to travel and pay their respects at various events."