Drax Power Station projects giant poppy to mark Remembrance Sunday

The projection onto one of the 114m-tall towers should be visible from miles around to commemorate those involved in the two world wars and other conflicts.

It will be on display between 6pm and 10pm from Armistice Day, Thursday, November 11 to Remembrance Sunday, November 14.

Drax is also donating £2,000 to the Poppy Appeal and will be laying wreaths at war memorials local to its operations across the UK.

Bruce Heppenstall, plant director, said: “Drax has a proud history of supporting the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal.

"By projecting the symbol of remembrance on to one of our cooling towers we are aiming to show armed forces personnel throughout the generations the gratitude we feel for the sacrifices they’ve made.

"Last year, Covid restrictions meant that it was difficult for people to come together safely at remembrance services and for charities to fundraise in the usual way.

"This year we’re pleased to be able to gather in person to pay our respects and support the Royal British Legion, which provides lifelong support to our armed forces community.”

Members of the public are welcome to view the projection from the Drax Sports and Social Club car park opposite the power station where they will also be able to donate to the Poppy Appeal via QR code.

Alex Wood, warehouse manager at Drax is an ex-Army Staff Sergeant, who organises the annual Poppy Appeal at the power station.

He said: “I’m proud to work for an organisation that supports the Royal British Legion. There are at least 20 ex-armed forces personnel working at Drax, as well as several Army Reserves.

"The help the Legion provides for veterans like me is fantastic, with many of us relying on this support to help transition to civilian lives.”

Drax is committed to supporting the communities local to its operations.

It has invested more than £840,000 to support its customers and local communities since the start of the Covid-19 crisis.