BUSES in First’s Wessex fleet are now “wearing” their poppies with pride ahead of Remembrance Day next Tuesday.

Thirty-five buses operating from First’s Weymouth and Yeovil depots are now adorned with large red poppies as a mark of respect to all those who gave their lives in the two World Wars and other conflicts.

Annmarie Cartlidge, customer engagement manager for Dorset, Hampshire and Berkshire, said: “A total of 200 buses across the business are wearing poppies which we know will be appreciated by our customers especially for those who were members of the Armed Forces or have family and friends that served.

"Many of our drivers are also ex-Forces.

“This area has several military connections - including the Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm in Yeovil - and the poppies on our buses are designed to reflect this proud legacy leading up to and including Remembrance Day especially this year, the centenary of the start of World War One.”

First has made a significant donation to the Royal British Legion for the poppies.

The bus company has also said that if it is safe to do so, their drivers will be taking part in the minute’s silence at 11am on Remembrance Day.