Mark volunteered for the Poppy Appeal after a 35-year military career.
After joining the Army as a Junior Leader when he was 15, Mark rose through the ranks before retiring as a Warrant Officer Class 1.
"I had the opportunity to join the Army as a Junior Leader," says Mark.
"I don't know why they took me as really I had nothing to offer, but for the next two years I was fed, clothed, given an education and I suppose moulded into something resembling what the Army wanted.
"As a result of that service as a boy I was able to make the Army a full career and served for the next 35 years."
"Due to my Army service I was able to take the opportunity of giving my son the education I never had," adds Mark.
"He went on to University and gained a decent degree followed by a Masters Degree."
Both of Mark’s grandchildren have also gone on to University, with the eldest recently graduating as a Veterinary Surgeon.
£50m
Giving back
Having retired, Mark now works to raise money for the Poppy Appeal every year, organising other volunteers in his local area and collecting donations.
Now I am happy to do my bit for the Poppy Appeal.
"Commuters are amazed to see a 'poppy man' about so early but people love to stop and chat.
"I am glad that I have this opportunity to pay back for my good fortune and hope I will be able to do so for many years to come!"
