Across Cornwall, communities came together this week to mark the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings in Normandy.

From ceremonies to commemorative events, the day was filled with remembrance of those who sacrificed for freedom all those years ago.

Here’s our roundup of commemorative events which took place in Cornwall on Thursday, June 6.

Penzance:

Falmouth Packet: Penzance Town Crier reads a proclamation at the War Memorial Penzance Town Crier reads a proclamation at the War Memorial (Image: Penzance Council)

The day began with a proclamation read by the Penzance Town Crier at the War Memorial, followed by a commemorative service. This was repeated at the Newlyn War Memorial and a ceremony led by Mousehole Royal British Legion at the Mousehole War Memorial, honouring the bravery of the British veterans who played a crucial role in the D-Day landings.

Redruth:

Falmouth Packet: Members of Redruth Town Council along with 77 squadron air cadets Members of Redruth Town Council along with 77 squadron air cadets (Image: Redruth Town Council)

A day of remembrance was held in Redruth, organised by the Town Council. The 77 Squadron Air Cadets - Redruth carried the branch and union standards, showcasing military bearing. The day kicked off with a proclamation at The Miner Statue followed by a D-Day and World War II exhibition at the Redruth Library & Information Service.

The evening concluded with 1940's tunes, an international tribute, and the lighting of the Lamp of Peace.

Camborne:

Falmouth Packet: Camborne Beacon alight on D-Day Camborne Beacon alight on D-Day (Image: Camborne Town Council)

The Camborne Branch of The Royal British Legion inaugurated their new Remembrance Garden at Treswithian Crematorium. The garden, donated by Kernow Stone Memorials, was officially opened by Deputy Mayor Councillor John Morgan and was attended by veterans, council members, and guests.

Truro:

Falmouth Packet: D-Day Beacon alight in TruroD-Day Beacon alight in Truro (Image: Truro City Council)

The city of Truro played a significant role in the national commemoration, hosting events throughout the day.

Town Crier Lionel Knight read the D-Day proclamation, accompanied by Mayor Cllr Carol Swain and Town Clerk David Rodda.

A formal wreath-laying ceremony led by Truro Royal British Legion took place at 11 am. The day culminated with the mayor lighting a memorial beacon on the High Cross.

Mayor Swain said: "This was a hugely significant anniversary. I am very proud that our city joined cities and countries from across the world to commemorate the bravery of the many thousands of men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our peace and freedom."


Read Next | 8O boat flotilla sails along Carrick Roads to Falmouth Bay to mark D-Day


Helston:

Falmouth Packet: Members of the public gathered at Helston's monument on Thursday for a Beacon Lighting ceremony Members of the public gathered at Helston's monument on Thursday for a Beacon Lighting ceremony (Image: Nigel Riding)

Helston Town Band gave an emotional performance to mark D-Day on Sunday, June 2 at Coronation Boating Lake.

On Thursday the Helston community gathered at the Monument along with members of the town council and Armed Forces for a beacon lighting ceremony.

Porthleven:

Porthleven commemorated the 80th anniversary with a moving ceremony on the Harbour Head. The event featured a performance by Porthleven Town Band, courtesy of Cornwall Councillor John Keeling MBE, who entertained the crowd for an hour before the beacon was lit.

At 8.45pm the large Beacon of Hope was lit, illuminating the harbour and serving as a powerful symbol of remembrance. Smaller handheld Beacons of Hope were sold from 7pm, with all proceeds going to the Royal British Legion.