By Isle of Wight Observer
Large crowds gathered in Newport on Saturday to celebrate D-Day 80 with a day of free entertainment. The event was a huge success, and culminated with a parade from Drill Hall Road to Victoria Recreation Ground, organised by Simon Tutton of the Royal British Legion, and led by the Highland Pipes & Drums.
Lord-Lieutenant, Susie Sheldon, took the salute, and marchers formed in front of the stage for a speech by her, with a moving performance from Barton Primary followed by a two-minute silence.
The event was organised by Newport & Carisbrooke Community Council, with many people taking advantage of a free ride on the Old Girl bus, which acted as a shuttle between the event and Church Litten.
Entertainment through the day was provided by Bob Howarth Big Band, with Emz Wight, Sandown & Shanklin Military Band, and singer, Martin Hoy.
Jive Revive gave a lindy hop dance lesson in the marquee, while Gary Newman, from the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, assisted at least 20 families to find out information on their relatives who fought during the War.
Vectis 40s Vintage filled the Pavilion Hall, showing people what life was like during war-time, including a war-time shop set up.
Restore the Story told people about auxiliary units, and PLUTO. There were displays from Wight Military & Heritage Museum, with a Winston Churchill impersonator, Friends of ORP Blyskawica, the Royal British Legion, and Bembridge Fort Trust, as well as a selection of stalls.
Time Jump Histories explained the story of Operation Overlord, and put young people through their paces on a small assault course.
