COLCHESTER'S civic and military dignitaries stood separate but strong, as they together marked 75 years since the end of the Second World War.

To commemorate the suffering and sacrifice of all who served through the war and to celebrate the ultimate victory, a socially distanced ceremony was held at Merville Barracks in Colchester on Saturday- Victory over Japan Day.

The unforgettable landmark - which is otherwise known as VJ Day - commemorates the surrender of Japan which lead to the end of the war.

Fighting in the Far East against Japanese forces continued after the surrender of Nazi Germany on May 8 1945, but shortly came to an end on August 15.

And a whole host of prominent figures took to Colchester for Saturday's service, including the Lord-Lieutenant of Essex Jennifer Tolhurst, The Queen’s representative in the county, Councillor John Jowers, chair of Essex County Council, Colchester Mayor Councillor Nick Cope and the Bishop of Colchester The Right Reverend Roger Morris.

Beside them stood senior officers from the 16 Air Assault Brigade and Colchester Garrison, as representatives of Colchester’s Sikh and Nepali community reflected the vital contribution to victory made by soldiers from the Commonwealth and our allies.

After taking part in the national two-minute silence at 11am, wreathes were laid at the barrack’s Dakota aircraft.

For Colchester-based 16 Air Assault Brigade, the involvement of airborne soldiers serving in the British Indian Army was particularly remembered- the actions of the 44th Indian Airborne Division during the Burma campaign helped to set the standard of bravery and commitment expected of today’s airborne soldiers, with both serving under the same Pegasus emblem.

The Lord-Lieutenant of Essex Jennifer Tolhurst, said: "It is hugely important that we come together in Essex to commemorate Victory over Japan Day. The courage and commitment of all who fought in the Far East - be they British, Commonwealth or our allies - was second to none and their sacrifice will always be remembered."

Lieutenant Colonel Stephen Caldwell, of the 16 Air Assault Brigade, said: “VJ Day marked the final end of the Second World War and it is important to bring Essex’s military and civilian communities together to mark the 75th anniversary.

"The war in the Far East was a long way from home, unlike the fighting in Europe, and is often overlooked.

"Soldiers, sailors and airmen from Britain, the Commonwealth and our allies fought bravely in a tough environment against a committed enemy to achieve the ultimate victory.

"We remember the shared endeavour and sacrifices, celebrate the hard-fought victory, and draw inspiration as we face up to current challenges.”

Mayor of Colchester, Councillor Nick Cope, said: "On behalf of the people of Colchester, I would like to pay tribute to the two-and-a-half million brave members of the armed forces who served in the Far East during the dark years of the Second World War.

“The campaigns fought in Asia were the longest of the war and those involved – on both sides – saw arguably the most severe deprivation and hardship.

"Our forces have been referred to as the forgotten army. Well, today, on this 75th anniversary, they are not forgotten. We remember them all, give thanks for their bravery and sacrifice, and will ensure the memory of their contribution lives on.”