Glastonbury commemorated the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings with a full schedule of events on June 6th, 2024, honouring the historic event with activities designed to engage all ages and pay tribute to those who served.

The day began at the Market Cross, where Glastonbury Town Crier David Greenway announced the 'D-Day 80 Proclamation'. This solemn declaration was accompanied by the sounds of Glastonbury's Civic Bagpiper Craig MacFarlane, setting a reverent tone for the day's proceedings.

The Mayor of Glastonbury, alongside local faith leaders, led 'Prayers for Peace' at the Town Hall, which flew the D-Day 80 Flag in a gesture of remembrance and respect.

Children from Glastonbury's schools read a poem by Chelsea Pensioner Roy Palmer – Herald of the Royal Hospital. The poem, crafted specifically for this anniversary, served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during D-Day.

Philip Beckinsale, Acting Pilot Officer of No: 914 (Glastonbury & Street) Squadron, hosted a 'Model Aircraft Display' in St. John's Church. The display featured models of aircraft involved in D-Day and dioramas of historical military significance, including V1 & V2 rocket launch sites.

The day's events continued with the 'National Fish and Chip Day Extravaganza' in the Market Place, where locals enjoyed this British staple along with veterans. Ted Allen, Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Somerset, delivered a commemorative address, and Glastonbury Brass provided 1940s musical accompaniment.

The bell-ringers of St John's Church participated in 'Ringing Out for Peace', a nationwide bell-ringing event to mark the anniversary.

The commemorative activities culminated at 9pm with the 'Beacon Lighting at the Tor'. Prebendary David MacGeoch, Vicar of Glastonbury, lit the D-Day 80 Beacon on the summit of Glastonbury Tor at 9:15 pm, following a formal tribute by Mohammed Saddiq, Lord-Lieutenant of Somerset.

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For those who missed the events, a local filmmaker has captured the day's highlights in a special video. You can watch the anniversary commemorations and explore more footage of life in Glastonbury on Gabriel's YouTube channel.