The Reporter has teamed up with an Uttlesford coach company to give older people the opportunity to see a remarkable tribute “which has captured the imagination of the country” at the Tower of London.

Don’s of Dunmow will be taking a coach-load of 52 residents, over the age of 65, to the “magnificent” poppies in the famous moat next Thursday.

The Reporter asked the coach company to arrange the free trip after being contacted by Saffron Walden resident Bert Clements.

Mr Clements, 84, who is not sure if he will be able to attend, as he is a full-time carer, said: “The idea just came out of the blue, it was not really for me to go. It was a combination of reading about the poppies in the paper and realising what a magnificent thing it must be.

“It is incredible how many people have been to see it but I am sure there are many more who would like to but can’t. That’s where the idea came from.”

As well as the trip to the Tower, there will also be a tour of some of the capital city’s other famous sites.

Seats will be available to any older resident in the district on a first come first serve basis.

Jamie Bishop, who works in operations department at Don’s, said: “We are more than willing to do anything we can to help our elderly population. It is going to be a great day out for our passengers and we are really excited.”

Secretary of the Saffron Walden branch of the Royal British Legion (RBL), Mick Bernie, said: “The poppies have captured the imagination of the country and they could of sold them again and again and again.

“The amazing number of people who have gone down there has taken London by surprise. The fact the Reporter and Don’s is going to take elderly residents who may not be able to visit otherwise is really nice.”

Pick up will be from Great Dunmow at 9am and Saffron Walden at 9.30am. The coach should arrive back in Uttlesford at 4pm. Free tea and coffee will be provided but bring your own food.

If you would like to go, call Emma Hardwick on 01799 513053 or e-mail emma.hardwick@archant.co.uk with your contact details.