The 80th Anniversary of D-Day – commemorations in Gloucestershire

June 6, 1944 saw the largest seaborne invasion in history as allied forces landed on the beaches of Normandy, beginning the liberation of France and leading to victory in Europe.

This year marks the 80th anniversary of that historic day, and offers an opportunity to commemorate its significance and reflect on the sacrifices that were made.  

Events are being held across Gloucestershire to mark the occasion, as well as the national and international events and coverage of the day and its significance.  

• Twigworth St Matthews Church: Raising of the 80 D-Day Flag at 9am
• Robinswood Hill: Lighting of a beacon at 9:15pm and reading of the D-Day proclamation. 
• Gloucester Cross: Reading of the D-Day proclamation at 8am and 12noon. 
• Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum: Exhibition running from 1 June to 14 June. More information can be found on their Facebook page.
• Stonehouse Memorial Green: Raising of the Union Flag at 8am, and the lighting of a beacon at 9.15pm.  
• Nailsworth, Mortimer Gardens: Reading of the D-Day proclamation at 8am. Beacon lighting at 9pm at the church grounds.  
• Cheltenham War Memorial: A Service of Remembrance, 10.50am 
• South Gloucestershire: A list of all events can be viewed on the South Gloucestershire Council website.  
• Tewkesbury Methodist Church: D-Day service at 3pm on Sunday 9 June.   
• Mitcheldean, Dene Magna School Grounds: A day of activities running from 11am to 4pm. View the event listing for more information.  
• Sula Lightship, Gloucester Docks: Switching on of the main lantern at 9pm.  

All events 6 June unless otherwise stated.  

You can find out more about the official D-Day 80 commemorations at the D-Day 80 government website.