Railway station tribute to soldiers unveiled

The picture shows a row of people all holding wreaths covered in poppies. They're standing in a train station, and are all looking at a man to the right hand side of them, who is reading an order of service.

A Remembrance event at Hull Paragon Interchange also saw the unveiling of a new poppy installation

Grace McGrory
Hull

A Remembrance event has been held at a railway station to honour those who have used it throughout the years to travel to serve on the frontline.

The event at Hull Paragon Station also showcased a new six-metre long structure made up of about 2,500 poppies, which was designed by Hull artist Andy Pea.

It also formed part of the nationwide Railway 200 celebrations, which marks 200 years since the opening of the world's first public railway in 1825.

Chris Jackson, managing director at TransPennine Express, said: "Hull Paragon Station has a long history with the military. We thought it was important to recognise the role of the railway, but also the role of those who gave the ultimate sacrifice."

The picture shows a black pole running down the middle. It's adorned with red poppies of different sizes. Above is is a glass roof.

The art installation is six metres long, and goes from the ceiling to the floor of the station

The event, which was supported by TransPennine Express, LNER, Northern and Hull City Council, involved wreath laying, the reading of poems and the performance of the Last Post.

Mr Jackson added: "It feels like a really strong community event. We've had representatives from across the community and, of course, veterans who have done an amazing job and spoken with such passion.

"It was a great honour to be asked to take part."

One of those veterans involved in the service was Stephen Johnson, 69, a former submariner.

He said: "People gave great sacrifices - some came back, some didn't, which is a tragedy for the city.

"But it also makes the city very proud in what it did, and how it contributed to the effort. I'm very happy to be here."

The photo shows a man looking at the camera. He's wearing a military suit and tie, and a hat. He's standing in front of a train station. There are poppy displays in the background.

Veteran Stephen Johnson, 69, read a psalm at the service

The artist behind the art installation, Andy Pea, said while working on the project he found out that his grandfather signed up to fight from Paragon Station as part of The North Eastern Railway (NER) Pals Brigade.

"It brings it home, what these guys did. It's been beautiful, it's been a lovely experience."

The display will be in place at the station until 20 November.

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