ScotRail and Network Rail supported fundraising efforts and provided gifts-in kind worth more than £202,000 for Poppyscotland during 2025, which included VE Day on May 8, Armed Forces Day on June 28, and the 2025 Scottish Poppy Appeal.
The total surpassed the previous record set in 2024, and marks the highest amount ever raised with Scotland’s Railway’s support.
Fundraising included donations from ScotRail customers, with gifts-in kind including free on-duty travel passes for Poppyscotland staff, and providing the charity with access to retail space in stations.
Collection tins were placed at ticket offices and volunteers were welcomed into Scotland’s busiest stations, including Edinburgh’s Waverley and Haymarket stations, for collections throughout the year.
The final total of £202,052.56 represents an almost £50,000 increase on last year’s record of £154,344.02.
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Paul McKay, ScotRail communications director, said: “We’re incredibly proud to have reached another record total in support of Poppyscotland.
“This reflects the incredible generosity of our customers and the dedication of our people, who once again came together to support Poppyscotland’s vital work for veterans and their families.
“The life-changing work Poppyscotland does for our Armed Forces community cannot be understated, and we’re honoured to be able to play a part in that.”
Paul Danks, Network Rail Scotland co-lead for the Armed Forced Employee Network, said: “We’re delighted to have played a part in raising this record-breaking total for Poppyscotland.
“Our teams across Scotland worked hard to support the fundraising efforts, and it’s inspiring to see the generosity of passengers and staff making such a difference.
“Supporting veterans and their families is something we do every day through our Armed Forces Employee Network, and we look forward to continuing this partnership in the years ahead.”
Damian Doran-Timson, Poppyscotland corporate fundraiser, said: “The support that Scotland’s Railway give to Poppyscotland throughout the year is invaluable. From allowing us to collect in rail stations to the passes that give our staff and volunteers free sustainable travel, this support makes a significant difference to veterans and their families in need.
“On behalf of our veterans, Poppyscotland would like to express our gratitude to railway staff and the generous rail users who donate at our appeals. Thank you.”
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