Last week's D-Day events raised much needed funds for the Royal British Legion Poppy appeal and welcomed nearly 200 residents to mark 80 years since the invasion of Normandy.

This monumental event, known as Operation Overlord, marked the turning point of World War II and the ultimate victory for allied forces. D-Day is marked every year, an opportunity to remember and reflect, as well as honour those lost and recognise peace.

The concert raised over £600. Image credit: Nub News.

As such, on Thursday 6 June, a moving concert and beacon lighting took place in Oakham to mark the anniversary.

The D-Day 80 Commemoration Concert, which took place at Oakham All Saints Church, was attended by nearly 200 people. Ian Halcrow and The Rutland Concert Band performed at the event, and the retiring collection raised £672 for the Royal British legion Poppy Appeal.

The D-Day Commemoration concert on Thursday evening was followed by the lighting of the beacon at Cutts Close, Oakham by the Lord Lieutenant of Rutland Dr Sarah Furness.

David Kirk. Image credit: Adam Lowe.

As the beacon was lit at 9:15pm, Mr David Kirk of Uppingham struck up his bagpipes and played as did Piper Bill, the Canadian born, Scottish bagpiper, who played the pipes as his comrades stormed Sword Beach 80 years ago during the D-Day landings.

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Oakham's Mayor supported the lighting of the beacon.

Dr Sarah Furness and Cllr Adam Lowe lighting the beacon. Image credit: Nub News.

The event highlighted Rutland's ongoing military loyalty and patriotism, and was a solemn but uplifting evening.

Read more about Rutland's involvement in the D-Day landings here.