Edinburgh landmarks light up red in support of Scottish Poppy Appeal

Edinburgh Castle, The Balmoral Hotel clock tower and the Royal Yacht Britannia are just three tourist attractions changing their colour to mark Armistice Day.

Other locations also lighting up red include Edinburgh Airport, Jenners, Edinburgh International Conference Centre and the Government buildings at Victoria Quay and St Andrews House.

Poppyscotland are hopeful the birght colour will raise awareness for their annual #Extramile appeal, which encourages the public to give a little bit extra in recognition of the hard work the armed forces carryout everyday.

The appeal was launched at Edinburgh Waverley Station last month by double Olympic medallist Callum Skinner, and dozens of veterans attended to tell their stories, and mark the special day.

Gordon Michie, head of fundraising at Poppy Scotland, said: “It’s fantastic to see Edinburgh lit up in poppy red once again for the Scottish Poppy Appeal.

“We’ve been blown away by the community’s support.

“We hope that when people see Edinburgh glowing red over the Remembrance weekend they will think about the many ways they too can go the extra mile in their support for this year’s Poppy Appeal.

“Whether it’s putting a little bit more in the poppy tin, or doing something completely different to raise money, every penny helps us to offer life-changing support so we can be there when they call for backup.”

Other iconic landmarks across Scotland, including the Kelpies and the Titan Crane will join Edinburgh’s buildings in lighting up red until Sunday November 13.

Throughout the course of Armistice day, a series of rememberance ceremonies will be held in the city at 11am.

Residents and tourists are invited to pay their respects in the Princes Street Garden of Remembrance, the Haymarket Memorial, New Haig House or Edinburgh Waverley station.

On Sunday, Legion Scotland’s Annual Remembrance Parade and Service will also commence at 11am.

Senior representatives from the government, the city council and the military - along with associations and organisations - have been invited to lay wreaths at the Stone of Remembrance at the entrance of the City Chambers.

A morning service will also take place St Giles Cathedral.

Poppyscotland provides life-changing support to the Armed Forces community all year round.

Money raised from the appeal and year-round fundraising enables them to deliver support to members of the Armed Forces community by providing tailored funding and assistance.

The charity also funds services in advice, employment, housing, mental health, mobility and respite for veterans.

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