Norfolk could 'lead the way' in 80th anniversary of D-Day

As the 79th anniversary of the invasion takes place on Tuesday (June 6), thoughts are already turning to next year, when a special series of events will remember those who took part.

Gorleston man Bruno Peek, royal pageantmaster and co-ordinator of D-Day 80, said: “We are making a really big effort with this one.” 

Beacons will be lit at 9.15pm on June 6, 2024, on the five beaches of northern France where Allied troops landed.  

Royal pageantmaster Bruno Peek is hoping Norfolk can lead the way in the 80th anniversary of D-Day in June 1944. (Image: Archant 2012)

And Mr Peek is asking villages, towns and cities across the UK to light a beacon at the same time. 

He has already compiled and distributed a 'Guide to Taking Part in D-Day 80' to various organisations around the country. 

As well as remembering the thousands of Allied troops who died on and after D-Day, the commemorations will also highlight the role played by farmers and fishermen. 

READ MORE: 'Modest and kind' D-Day veteran dies aged 96 on Christmas Day 

More than 209,000 Allied troops died on and after the D-Day landings in 1944. (Image: Newsquest)

Next year's events will use fish and chips, which were not rationed during the Second World War, to pay tribute to those who worked on the land and the sea, many of whom were women.

Thanks to the support and involvement of National Fish and Chip Day and the National Federation of Fish Friers, thousands of fish and chip shops around UK will take part in the day’s activities. 

READ MORE: One of Norfolk's last surviving D-Day veterans dies age 97

Mr Peek is also calling on fishing fleets across to have a supper that night serving up fish and chips.

“And at 9.15pm we will ask them to light their ships at the same time as the beacons are being lit to pay tribute to fallen fishermen.” 

In Great Yarmouth, the Lydia Eva, the last steam drifter, will host an event at South Quay.