Richard Griffiths

Said the following about Abi Burridge:

“During the Poppies to Paddington Remembrance event hundreds of wreaths are laid at the war memorial. To keep the platform area clear and safe for passengers to board trains after the event a number of these have to be removed. Abi identified a solution which would enable the wreaths to stay in tribute longer and designed and manufactured a temporary wall for the wreaths to hang on which could stand alongside the war memorial. Through her innovation and determination that the communities who sent wreaths should have their tributes on show, Abi ensured that the Paddington Station Remembrance event was a success that lasted long after the ceremony itself. Her innovative solution can be used year after year and provides a point of quiet reflection for the railway passengers and colleagues to pay tribute to those who lost their lives in war.

The innovative solution Abi designed and had manufactured has enabled Paddington Station to create a longer lasting Remembrance Tribute than previous years for passengers to enjoy and take time to reflect. This has meant that the station and wider industry reputation with communities in the South West, charity partners and stakeholders involved in Remembrance has been enhanced. Abi wasn't asked to identify a solution but took it upon herself to identify something that created a safer display of the wreaths, that can be used sustainably year after year so that the industry can pay an appropriate and touching tribute to colleagues who have gone before us and lost their lives in wars“