Spies at GCHQ show their heart
THEY are best known for keeping a very low profile.
But spies at the Government's chief listening centre put on a breathtaking show of patriotism as they helped launch the poppy appeal.
The staff at GCHQ covered their heads with red ponchos and gathered in the inner ring of the giant doughnut-shaped building in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire.
They were joined by black-uniformed Royal Navy personnel who made up the centre of the 125-ft flower and others in combat gear formed the stem.
It took them an hour to create the spectacular flower which was then photographed from the air.
One worker said: "I was really proud to take part and show my support for the Royal British Legion by coming together with my colleagues, united in purpose, to honour those who have served and continue to serve this country.
"I've worked with the military in Afghanistan and seen first-hand how GCHQ intelligence can help keep UK troops safe whilst on operation.
"I'm proud to see so many from GCHQ come together today to show their support for the Royal British Legion and the military family."
Nicole Mayall, from Gloucestershire's poppy appeal, said: "It was moving to see so many people standing together to support the work of the Legion."
Participants were invited to make a donation to take part, raising £1,730 in the process.
The ponchos will now be donated to local scout groups as well as Bloodbikes, a charity providing out of hours emergency medical courier service.
GCHQ is one of the three UK intelligence and security agencies with MI5 and the Secret Intelligence Service (MI6).
