Stevenage Borough Council will commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day with a beacon lighting ceremony.

Residents and visitors are invited to gather at Stevenage Town Centre Joyride on June 6, to honour the bravery and sacrifice of World War II soldiers.

The beacon lighting ceremony serves as a poignant reminder of the courage of the Allied forces on June 6, 1944. This day saw the launch of the largest sea and land invasion in history, marking the beginning of the end of WWII.

Councillor Richard Henry, leader of the council, said: "Come and join in this momentous occasion where we stand together as a community to remember those who have given their lives in battle and celebrate the 80th D-Day Beacon lighting ceremony.

"It is because of these brave people we are able to stand here together in a shared tribute to the courage and sacrifice that has shaped our history and illuminated the path to freedom for us all.”

The Mayor of Stevenage will lead a welcome address at the ceremony, along with prayers and readings by St Andrew and St George's reverend, and a bag pipe performance.

The beacon will be lit at 9.15pm, coinciding with other beacons lit across the UK and Commonwealth.