THE sacrifice of the brave soldiers who took part in the D-Day landings will be honoured at a service in Colchester to mark the 80th anniversary. 

The memorial day, on Thursday June 6, will start at 10am with a poignant ceremony led by mayor Lesley Scott-Boutell on the steps of Town Hall in High Street. 

The D-Day 80 flag of peace will be raised, followed by the reading of a specially written proclamation by town crier, Robert Needham. 

At 12.30pm, a commemorative service in partnership with the Colchester Garrison will be held at the War Memorial. 

Gazette: Colchester troops parachute into France to celebrate D-Day anniversary Picture: Jane Barlow/PAColchester troops parachute into France to celebrate D-Day anniversary Picture: Jane Barlow/PA

This service will provide an opportunity for the community to come together and remember all those who lost their lives during the Normandy Landings and in the subsequent liberation of Europe. 

Later in the evening, the mayor, accompanied by the Town Watch, will lead a procession from Town Hall to Castle Park, where a beacon will be lit at 9.15pm to commemorate the anniversary, concluding the day of remembrance and reflection. 

Gazette: American troops wading ashore at Omaha Beach. Picture: PAAmerican troops wading ashore at Omaha Beach. Picture: PA

Mayor Lesley said: “The D-Day landings were a pivotal moment in history, and it is important that we take the time to remember the sacrifices made by those who fought for our freedom. Colchester’s events will contribute to a nationwide outpouring of remembrance, ensuring their bravery is never forgotten. 
 
“We are indebted to the courage and sacrifice of the Allied forces who landed on the beaches of Normandy. Their actions helped to pave the way for the liberation of Europe and the eventual defeat of Nazi Germany. 

Gazette: Celebration - the new mayor of Colchester, Lesley Scott-Boutell (Image: Seana Hughes)Celebration - the new mayor of Colchester, Lesley Scott-Boutell (Image: Seana Hughes) (Image: Seana Hughes)
 
“These commemorations will provide an opportunity for the people of Colchester to come together and pay their respects to all those who played a part in this momentous event.” 

Lieutenant Colonel Ed Rankin, Commander of Colchester Garrison, added to the historic importance in light of Colchester’s rich military history. 

He said:  “For the soldiers of Colchester Garrison, as the home of the British Army’s airborne forces, we pay particular tribute to the soldiers of 6th Airborne Division who landed by parachute or glider. Today’s soldiers are conscious that they shoulder the responsibility of maintaining the high standards set on D-Day.”

Troops from the 16 Air Assault Brigade are in Normandy for events to mark the anniversary, including a commemorative parachute jump onto one of the drop zones used in 1944.