Giant poppy installed at Shrewsbury railway station

Network Rail and Transport for Wales Rail Services, with backing from the Royal British Legion, has also placed poppies at Cardiff Central and Rhyl, while 36 trains will also be decorated with poppies.

Royal British Legion collections will also be supported, with poppy boxes placed at many of the network's stations.

James Spooner, off-track technician for Network Rail, has served in the Royal Marines and was the first to sign a message of remembrance at Shrewsbury station.

Bill Kelly, route managing director for Network Rail Wales and Borders, said: “Having served in the Armed Forces, I fully appreciate the dedication of these men and women, the sacrifice they and their families have made and debt of gratitude we owe to each and every single one of them. We must never forget.”

Colin Lea, commercial and customer experience director Transport for Wales Rail Services, said: “The sacrifices made by so many over the years for our freedom should never be forgotten so we feel it is very fitting to recognise that on the railway.

“We know there are strong ties between the railway and the military with many railway workers going off to defend their country in the wars, while many of our current colleagues have served in various branches of the armed forces. So it’s right that we honour them and allow our customers who are travelling this week the chance to leave their own messages of thanks.”

Jenny Robey, community fundraiser for Shropshire said: “Everyone has a connection to the First World War, and we all have a reason to say ‘Thank You’ for the legacy that extraordinary generation left for us.

“The First World War left countless legacies that positively impact our lives today, from ground breaking social change and timeless works of art to pioneering innovations. As we come to the end of the First World War Centenary now is the time to come together in our communities and say ‘Thank You.’

“This Poppy Appeal wear your poppy with pride to support the Armed Forces community past and present. Every donation received will make a real difference to the lives of Service men and women, veterans and their loved ones.”

Network Rail signed the British Armed Forces Military Covenant back in 2015, and since then has worked closely with the Ministry of Defence to transition skills into the rail industry and develop a forces-friendly environment with its workplace.