2024 marks the 80th anniversary of the Normandy Landings, a pivotal moment in history. On 6 June, 1944, Allied forces executed the largest amphibious invasion ever witnessed — D-Day. Their courage and sacrifice paved the way for freedom and peace across Europe.
Across the UK, a wide range of tributes and ceremonies are taking place, including lighting of Beacons, lighting lamps and ringing out for peace, where Cathedrals and Churches are being encouraged to ring their bells at 6.30pm on Thursday 6 June.
More information about national D-Day events are on the GOV.UK website. https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/d-day-80
There are also several D-Day commemoration events taking place across Torbay.
Tuesday 4 June to Sunday 9 June:
Commemorations of the D-Day anniversary in Brixham include a D-Day exhibition at Brixham Museum, an open event at Brixham Battery, shop window displays, quayside activities, Shoalstone Pool sing along and evening social events.
Throughout the weekend (Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 June), there are sea shanty performances, brass bands, a 1940s music concert with Sandy Sparkle, and free film screenings.
All the events are part of Brixham’s ‘Back to the 40s’ programme organised by Brixham Future (with funding from Brixham Lottery) to mark the D-Day anniversary and you can view an online guide on the website.
Events on Thursday 6 June:
In Brixham a commemoration parade led by Scottish Pipers and Drums is taking place at 10:30am.
An Embarkation service will take place in commemoration of the D-Day Landings of 1944 on Beacon Quay, Torquay at 11am.
Beacon Lighting is taking place at Corbyn Head, Daddyhole Plain and at Shoalstone Pool at 9.15pm as part of the UK wide tribute national mark of D-Day 80.
Saturday 8 June:
Join Babbacombe Theatre as they commemorate the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings in a special live theatre show to celebrate the spirit and courage of a remarkable generation.
A D-Day 80 Exhibition is at Torquay Museum until 21 September.
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