To commemorate the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landing and honour those who fought during World War II, there will be a special event at Elmdon Park on Thursday 6 June.
A beacon lighting ceremony including readings and music from a piper will take place at Elmdon Park (next to Elmdon Church) from 9pm.
Communities across the UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man and UK Overseas Territories will all light their beacons of peace at the same time to celebrate the peace and freedom granted by those who sacrificed their lives during the largest naval, air and land operation in history. Beacons will also be lit on the shorelines of the five beaches in Normandy where the D-Day landings took place.
Prior to the beacon lighting, there will be a service at Elmdon Church from 7:30pm – 8:15pm, after which refreshments will be served to guests.
Please note that parking will not be available in the Church car park, so visitors are encouraged to walk or use public transport.
The Mayor of Solihull, Councillor Shahin Ashraf MBE said:
“I encourage anyone who would like to commemorate this monumental eighty-year anniversary to attend the beacon lighting ceremony in Elmdon on Thursday 6 June. People are also welcome to attend our Church service. The beacon is a powerful symbol of peace and this is a special occasion to recognise the sacrifices made on that day, across the Second World War, and in conflicts since.”
Elaine Butler, President of the Warwickshire & Birmingham County RBL, said:
“Everyone is welcome at our D-day anniversary ceremony – it’s so important that we continue to honour the soldiers who fought during D-Day and World War II as whole. However, it’s also vital that we recognise those who have fought in conflicts since and who fight for us today. Events like these are an opportunity for everyone – families, young people, veterans and those who are currently serving – to come together and remember.”
For further information about the D-Day anniversary events taking place across the UK, visit: https://dday80.campaign.gov.uk/