Queen Camilla's train ride through Swindon has been described as "more poignant than ever" in the wake of a recent railway tragedy in the UK.
The Queen boarded Great Western Railway's 'poppy train' in Wiltshire at 9.28am on Tuesday morning, November 11.
The journey was part of Great Western Railway's 'Poppies to Paddington' initiative, to mark 80 years since the end of the Second World War.
While on its way to Armistice Day events in London, the train stopped off at Swindon Railway Centre, where Queen Camilla was presented with wreaths of poppies by Swindon dignitaries and spoke to local mayor Councillor Fay Howard.
South Swindon MP, Heidi Alexander, who greeted the Queen in London Paddington, says the train journey was particularly powerful in the wake of a mass stabbing on a train in Cambridgeshire the previous week.
"Today feels poignant following the recent events in Huntingdon, where the courage and professionalism shown by our railway colleagues reflects the enduring values of service and care that have long characterised this vital industry," said the MP.
“We stand together to remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice, united in gratitude.
"As we mark 80 years since the end of the Second World War, we are reminded that our railways played a vital role in that conflict - and continue to serve our nation today - 200 years on from the birth of the modern railway."
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GWR Managing Director, Mark Hopwood, added: “We were honoured to have Her Majesty The Queen travel with wreaths on our service from Chippenham, and delighted to welcome her to our sixth year of Poppies to Paddington.
“Born from a simple idea during lockdown, it has grown into a shared act of Remembrance, and it’s one that unites our railway family and the communities we serve.
“As we reflect on the bravery of railway men and women during times of war – from Swindon Railway Works building airplanes for the RAF to staff serving at home and abroad.
"We are reminded that the spirit of service continues today, in colleagues who support the Armed Forces and in the quiet strength shown every day across our network.
“In the wake of last week’s tragic events, it feels more poignant than ever that the railway stands strong alongside the people and communities it serves."
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