Clacton came together in solemn remembrance on Friday (6 June) to mark the 81st anniversary of the D-Day landings, honouring the bravery and sacrifice of those who took part in one of the most pivotal moments of the Second World War.

The commemorative service, held at Clacton War Memorial and jointly organised by Tendring District Council (TDC) and the Clacton branch of the Royal British Legion, brought together veterans, armed forces representatives, standard bearers, councillors, and members of the public for a powerful act of remembrance.

Led by Reverend David Lower, the ceremony featured prayers, the laying of wreaths, and a heartfelt reading by Councillor Bill Davidson, Chairman of TDC.

“Eighty-one years ago, Allied troops stormed the beaches of Normandy in a mission that changed the course of history,” said Councillor Davidson.

“Today, we honoured their courage and remembered the price paid for peace.

“It was deeply moving to see our community come together in such strong numbers to reflect and pay tribute.”

The service is set to be followed by a special commemorative performance of Neil Sands’ Land of Hope and Glory at Clacton’s Princes Theatre on Tuesday (10 June).

The nostalgic musical journey through wartime and post-war Britain will feature beloved songs from the 1940s to the 1960s.

The show, specially produced to coincide with the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, will add a celebratory and reflective close to the commemorations.

Tickets for the show are available now at princestheatre.co.uk.

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