2024 marks the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings on the beaches of Normandy.
It proved to be a turning point in the Second World Way which led to the retaking of Europe by the Allied Forces.
Oswestry Town Council and the Oswestry Branch of the Royal British Legion will be marking the anniversary with a special D-Day 80 Picnic in the Park community event in Cae Glas Park on Saturday 8 June.
There will be a special service to honour the men and women who gave their lives to help liberate Europe and pay tribute to surviving veterans including Colin Cole who turns 105 on 12 June, who is hoping to attend.
Following a service of remembrance and reflection, there will be a host of free 1940s-themed activities for the family to enjoy. These include free displays, arts and crafts activities, live music from Porthywaen Silver Band and Vera Lynn-style singer, theatre performances by the Attfield Theatre Group, vintage vehicles, vintage Merry-Go-Round, lawn games, stalls, refreshments and more.
Neil Lawrenson, Chair of the Oswestry RBL Branch, said: “We will come together on the 80th anniversary in the spirit of remembrance, reflection and celebration to pay tribute to all those who fought for our freedom so courageously at Normandy. Our nation is forever in their debt.”
The Mayor of Oswestry Councillor Olly Rose said: “We are so pleased to be able to offer Cae Glas Park to both remember those service personnel who took part in the landmark D-Day landings, but also to celebrate their legacy by coming as a community to enjoy ourselves together. It looks to be a really great event with something to please everyone.”
D-Day 80 Picnic in the Park is free to attend, and everyone is welcome.
Pack a picnic and join forces personnel, veterans, cadets, historians and entertainers to commemorate this historic event.
Date: 8 June 2024
Time: 12noon to 4pm
Where: Cae Glas Park, Oswestry
Cost: Free
Ages: All ages
