Torbay RNLI joins remembrance wreath journey to Paddington

Torbay Lifeboat’s crew and volunteers had an early start yesterday (November 11), gathering at Paignton station to meet the first Paddington-bound train for a special Armistice Day journey across the South West.

Ian Barnaby, Chairman of Torbay RNLI, presented a remembrance wreath to the Great Western Railway (GWR) crew of the 6:43am train to London.

This wreath joined others from RNLI stations across the region before arriving at Paddington Station’s War Memorial on Platform 1, where it was placed among hundreds of others in an impressive tribute.

Above: Torbay RNLI volunteers and crew members at Paignton station. Image: RNLI/Niall Blatcher

In the 'handing-over', Ian was accompanied by fellow Torbay Lifeboat volunteers and crew members as well as Helen Lovell Smith of the Fisherman’s Mission who said a few words.

As part of the ceremony, a bugler from Brixham’s town band played the Last Post, adding a poignant note to the tribute.

Now celebrating its 200th year, the RNLI plays an important role in Remembrance Day, honouring the contributions and sacrifices made by volunteer crews during both World Wars and by those who continue to serve.

Above: The War memorial at Platform 1, Paddington station. Image: RNLI/Niall Blatcher

GWR worked with the RNLI and various veterans’ charities across the South West and Wales to collect wreaths from their branches, transporting them on 10 early-morning trains bound for Paddington.

Upon arrival, the wreaths were placed at the war memorial for a remembrance service beginning at 10:45am.

The Torbay RNLI wreath travelled via the Exeter train to join the others at Paddington Station.

Above: GWR's 6:34am Paddington train arrives at Platform 2, Paignton. Image: RNLI/Niall Blatcher

Ian reflected on the event: “It was a solemn but important and moving event for us. It was an early start, but everybody made it, and we were all glad to have had the chance to reflect, remember, and make our small contribution to the day on the Lifeboat station’s behalf.'

You can find out more about the charity's work here.