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The event will take place at the beacon in Promenade Park from 8.45pm where local historian and broadcaster, Stephen Nunn will read a piece he has written especially for this commemoration highlighting the sacrifices made by those from the Maldon district.

This will be followed by the reading of ‘A Nations Tribute’ by Cllr Kevin Lagan, Chairman of Maldon District Council. This tribute will be read simultaneously across the country, following which the beacon will be lit at 9.15pm.

Cllr Kevin Lagan, Chairman of Maldon District Council said, I would like to encourage the community to come together at this short ceremony to remember and honour the brave men and women who fought for freedom during World War II.  This tribute will be part of the chain of beacons being lit across the country at the same time and date, as part of the Nations tribute.”

Please be aware that there will be some loud bangs from maroons which will be fired as part of the commemoration as well as a WWII air-raid siren at the start and end of this short ceremony.

Earlier in the day, Cllr Lagan will lay a wreath on the grave on Private Charles Argent who lies in Maldon Cemetery, having been returned home after dying in training.

D-Day, which took place on June 6, 1944, marked the beginning of the liberation of Europe during World War II. The successful Allied invasion of Normandy was a turning point in the war and contributed significantly to the eventual defeat of Nazi Germany.

The beacon lighting event will serve as a tribute to the courage and sacrifice of the thousands of men and women who took part in the operation, many of whom never returned home, including those from the Maldon District.