A train company serving the East Coast Main Line through the North East is paying thanks to former and current service people as Remembrance Day approaches.

LNER has named one of its fleet of modern Azuma trains in recognition of those who have served and continue to serve the country’s Armed Forces.

Azuma unit 800111 has been re-named ‘Thank You’, with a special livery change as Remembrance Day nears, next month.

LNER said wrapped in a poppy design, it will travel the line as, “a poignant reminder of those who gave their tomorrow for our today.”

(Image: LNER) It has been pictured alongside LNER’s special-liveried InterCity 225 ‘For the Fallen’ (Class 91 No. 91111), which is dedicated to those who lost their lives during World War One.

(Image: LNER) ‘Thank You’ was welcomed into service by two ex-military personnel who now work for LNER.

Former Royal Navy Petty Officer Helen Firth and ex-Royal Air Force Senior Aircraftman Will Warwick proudly saluted at the official launch of the specially-named train at London King’s Cross, ahead of its journey up the line, to Aberdeen. 

LNER is also among the train companies that are standing with veterans to provide them with free rail travel across the country, as they attend Services of Remembrance.

(Image: LNER) Details of the free travel are available on the Rail Delivery Group website.  

LNER said the gesture maintains its proud and long-established relationship with the Armed Forces.

That close rapport continues to the current day, with ex-service personnel working across every department of the train operator’s business, from directors to frontline colleagues, cyber security and train drivers.

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James Downey, Director of Business Services, and executive sponsor of LNER’s veterans' community, said: “As a signatory of the Armed Forces covenant, we feel it is incredibly important to show our debt of gratitude to those who have served and continue to do so.

“We are proud that Azuma 800111 will carry our message of thanks.”

He added that he hopes the special livery will act as a moving reminder to all who see ‘Thank You’ on its journeys up and down the line.