Commuters got a surprise days before Armistice Day when Sir Keir Starmer gave out poppies at a central London station.

The Labour leader and Holborn & St Pancras MP was supporting the Royal British Legion outside Kings Cross Station on Thursday (November 9).

People were seen chatting to the politician and taking selfies with the party leader.

Journalist James Cowen, from Barnet, told the Ham&High he saw Sir Keir handing out poppies as he was getting off the train at St Pancras.

He said: "He attracted quite a bit of attention and was friendly to passengers as they came up to him. He was also happy to take selfies with people.

"Overall, it was a nice gesture from him to be there and hand out poppies as we approach Remembrance Day."

Sir Keir said: “I was proud to support the Royal British Legion today.

"The Poppy Appeal helps provide invaluable support to our veterans and Armed Forces communities here in Camden and across Britain.

“I encourage everyone to buy a poppy this week as we approach Remembrance Sunday.

"By doing so, we support those who served our country, who continue to serve, and pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting our freedoms.”

Remembrance Day is generally observed on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month to commemorate the end of the First World War.

Services remember the sacrifices of the Armed Forces in the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth, the special contribution of families and of the emergency services, and innocent civilians who have lost their lives in conflict and terrorism or who continue to be affected.

Wreath-laying ceremonies and services are taking place around north London over coming days, but with Armistice Day (November 11) this year falling on Saturday, most services will take place on Sunday.

The Royal British Legion is a charity that provides lifelong support to serving and ex-serving personnel and their families.

A spokesperson said: "We are grateful to each and every one of the thousands of collectors who kindly donate their time during the Poppy Appeal, and who this year are helping us reach our target of £50m to support our vital work with the Armed Forces community."