Pubs unite communities for Remembrance tributes

Poppy wreath for Remembrance Sunday
Important role: Pubs honour veterans on Remembrance Day (Getty Images)

Pubs across the country have honoured veterans with moving tributes, community gatherings and fundraising initiatives, highlighting the important role the sector plays in bringing people together.

Poppy relay

Marston’s marked Remembrance with a two-week ‘Pass the Poppy’ relay, covering more than 1,100 miles across five regions and visiting pubs nationwide.

Run in partnership with the Royal British Legion as part of its Raise a Glass campaign, the relay involved pub teams, local communities, veterans and volunteers, with the poppy travelling in everything from JCB tractor convoys to military vehicles.

It concluded at the Otter in Newbridge, South Wales, raising awareness and support for the Armed Forces community and Poppy Appeal.

Bringing people together

Hogarths in Preston, which is an Amber Taverns site, released a moving Remembrance video celebrating the role local pubs play in bringing communities together.

Featuring the city’s Remembrance commemorations alongside customers gathering at the pub, the film highlights how pubs provide a place for veterans, families and neighbours to unite, share memories and honour those who have served and sacrificed.

Hero IPA

Several pub groups, including Brakspear, Punch, Stonegate and Admiral Taverns joined forces with Alf Turner and Hogs Back Brewery to support Help for Heroes through the sale of Hero IPA during the Remembrance period.

Expanded initiative: Pub groups unite behind Hero IPA campaign

A donation from every pint sold will go towards supporting veterans, serving personnel and their families. The campaign built on last year’s success, when £2,940 was raised, and aims to expand fundraising across participating pubs nationwide.

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Raising a glass

The Queen’s Arms in Audenshaw marked the occasion with a tribute honouring the “courage, sacrifice and service” of the Armed Forces, past and present.

Inviting customers to raise a glass in remembrance, the pub also offered veterans wearing their medals or presenting valid veteran ID a complimentary drink.

Big heart

The Warrington Arms in Ashton-under-Lyne shared a tribute to those serving within its community and celebrating the pub’s commitment to honouring those who have dedicated their lives to the Armed Forces.

Immense gratitude

The Crown and Crossed Swords in Consett shared its “immense gratitude” to those who have served and continue to serve the country.

Following a community gathering over the weekend, the pub held a moment of quiet reflection, accompanied by a traditional bagpipe tribute from a local resident.

Community day

The Royal Dyche in Burnley hosted a Remembrance Day community event over the weekend to honour those who have, and continue to, serve.