Serving military personnel, veterans and cadets will be able to travel free on Stagecoach buses across Stroud on two dates connected with this year’s Remembrance commemorations.
The offer will apply on Remembrance Sunday, 8 November, and Remembrance Day, Wednesday, 11 November. Stagecoach said the scheme is intended to help members of the Armed Forces community reach remembrance services and other commemorations.
Who is eligible for free travel?
Passengers will need to show appropriate identification or wear relevant military attire to qualify for the offer. The requirements differ depending on whether the passenger is serving, a cadet or a veteran.
- Serving military personnel: free travel is available to those wearing their uniform or showing valid military identification.
- Cadets: cadets must be wearing uniform.
- Veterans: veterans can qualify by wearing their medals or displaying a Veterans Badge.
The source does not specify individual routes, stops, timetables or any booking process for the Stroud offer. Passengers intending to use the concession will therefore need to meet the stated identification or clothing requirements when travelling.
Stagecoach message for the Armed Forces community
Martin Gibbon, managing director of Stagecoach West, said Remembrance provided an opportunity for communities across Stroud to reflect on military service and the effects of conflict.
“Remembrance is an important opportunity for communities across Stroud to come together, reflect and pay tribute to all those who have served, and those whose lives have been affected by conflict.”
He added that the company was continuing the free-travel arrangement to support people taking part in commemorations.
“We’re proud to continue offering free travel to serving personnel, veterans and cadets as they take part in commemorations across the country.”
Mr Gibbon described the offer as a gesture of appreciation for the sacrifices made by members of the Armed Forces community.
“It’s a small gesture of our appreciation for the sacrifices made by our Armed Forces community, and our way of helping people come together to remember and pay their respects.”
Stagecoach’s Armed Forces commitments
Stagecoach has been a signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant since March 2015. The company also holds Gold status under the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme, which recognises its commitment to supporting serving personnel, veterans and the wider Armed Forces community.
The free travel dates give eligible passengers in Stroud an opportunity to use Stagecoach services while attending remembrance events. The supplied report gives the dates and eligibility conditions but does not identify the specific services on which the arrangement applies.