Martin Brookes Oakham Rutland: Beacon Lighting

Thursday, June 06, 2024

Oakham to Commemorate 80th Anniversary of D-Day Landings, Beacon Lighting, Party in the Park, The Rutland Concert Band at All Saints Church

Oakham to Commemorate 80th Anniversary of D-Day Landings

This year marks the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings, a pivotal moment in World War II. On June 6, 1944, Operation Overlord, the largest combined land, air, and sea operation in history, commenced. The day, though a success, came at a heavy cost with over 209,000 casualties.

Oakham Town Council will be holding two events to commemorate this historic anniversary.

D-Day Concert and Beacon Lighting

The first event will be a concert and beacon lighting ceremony on Thursday, June 6th. The Rutland Concert Band will perform music from the era at All Saints Church starting at 7:00 pm, followed by the beacon lighting in Cutts Close at 9:15 pm. Residents are encouraged to bring donations for the Royal British Legion. Oakham Castle will also be flying the D-Day flag of peace on June 6th.

D-Day Party in the Park

On Sunday, June 9th, as part of the town council's summer live music series, there will be a D-Day party in Cutts Close from noon to 5:00 pm. Local musicians Alan Jackson and Marlow & Smith will provide entertainment. Food and drinks will be available from vendors GRIFF's Pizza and The Grainstore. Residents are welcome to bring their own chairs, picnic blankets, and refreshments.

Service of Commemoration

Prior to the D-Day party, a service of commemoration for military personnel and veterans will be held at All Saints Church on Sunday, June 9th, starting at 10:30 am, hosted by Rutland's Lord-Lieutenant.

D-Day Swing Event Cancelled

Unfortunately, the Lions Club of Rutland's D-Day Swing event at Victoria Hall has been cancelled due to low ticket sales.