A specially commissioned wreath is being taking across Britain on an eight-day motorcycle journey.
The Wreath of Respect tour started at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire and is visiting Glasgow, York, Liverpool, Cardiff, Plymouth and Oxford before returning to the national memorial garden this Saturday, 23 August.
The wreath, made by Ash Ironworks, features poppies together with a horse shoe to show respect for all the horses that took part in the First World War. Following the motorcycle ride the wreath will go on display at the National Memorial Arboretum.
The motorcycle ride around the country is intended to honour all those who suffered and died in two world wars and in more recent conflicts. The organisers wanted to bring people together to acknowledge the pain and loss of service men and women, and also of their loved ones. Funds will be raised for the Royal British Legion during the trip.
Commenting on his involvement in the ride, Mike Ashton, one of the lead riders and carriers of the wreath, said: “Whether we call ourselves bikers or motorcyclists, I am sure we feel a sense of brotherhood. No doubt the same feeling shared by all those young men signing up to go to war 100 years ago. That is why I am playing my part in carrying the Wreath of Respect. It is possible that only soldiers, ex-soldiers and bikers understand this bond, and the need to show solidarity.”
Image: British Legion
