Poppy seller Denis Scaife, a well-known face on the East Coast Main Line, has completed his biggest fundraising challenge to date. Denis, 74, and his wife, Barbara, are celebrating ten years of their “Poppy Express” initiative with rail operators Lumo and Hull Trains.
The couple took on a poppy selling marathon which saw them fundraising on board Hull Trains and Lumo services from Retford to London King’s Cross, followed by Newcastle and Edinburgh and then all the way back again in the space of just two days. Lumo and Hull Trains organised a special treat for Denis and Barbara on their arrival in Scotland, with an exclusive invitation for them to attend a Scottish Poppy Appeal reception at Holyrood.
There they heard about Poppyscotland’s vital work with the Armed Forces, as well as meeting fellow fundraisers. Denis, a former Non-Commissioned Officer (sapper) with the Corps of Royal Engineers, started the Poppy Express ten years ago with his wife.
It has now grown into an institution with 15 volunteers travelling along the East Coast Main Line to raise money every year – 2024’s efforts raised more than £15,000, with hopes 2025 will exceed that amount as £11,000 has already been achieved.
At 531 miles from Retford to Edinburgh via London King’s Cross, Denis’s total journey covered more than 1,000 miles and was fuelled by unlimited refreshments and snacks on the services operating as the Poppy Express. It also coincides with London Poppy Day 2025 on October 30.
Reflecting on the challenge, Denis said: “Hull Trains have stood by me and the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal right from the start and it’s always a privilege to sell poppies to the friendly and generous customers on board. Our poppy marathon, this time teaming up with Lumo as well, has been a really special way to mark ten years of fundraising.
“Having the chance to attend the Scottish Poppy Appeal reception was a unique opportunity and a special moment for myself and Barbara. I’d like to thank both Lumo and Hull Trains for their amazing support and here’s to many more years to come.”
Stuart Jones, managing director of First Rail Open Access, said: “As open access operators, we’re proud to be deeply rooted in the communities we serve. Denis’s dedication to the Poppy Appeal embodies the very best of community spirit and we are honoured to support him in such a meaningful cause.
“I’d like to wish Denis a huge congratulations for completing ten years of fundraising and, in particular, this impressive challenge.” Richard Todd, national Poppy Appeal manager – Scotland, said: “It was lovely to welcome Denis and Barbara firstly at Edinburgh Waverley Station as they arrived off their train and later at our Edinburgh reception event and to get the chance to thank them both personally for their volunteer fundraising over the years.
“They have gone above and beyond for the Armed Forces community, covering thousands of miles and raising thousands of pounds. Already they look to be on course to smash their target this year, which is absolutely amazing. On behalf of Poppyscotland, a huge thank you again to Denis and Barbara.”
Both Lumo and Hull Trains are proud supporters of their local communities, as well as the Armed Forces. They are once again joining other rail companies in offering free travel to veterans across the country as part of national Remembrance efforts this year.