A beacon will be lit at Durlston Country Park, Swanage today (8 May 2015) to mark VE day.
The chairman of Dorset County Council, Cllr John Wilson, is hosting the event as part of a national celebration for the 70th anniversary of Victory in Europe. A chain of over 100 beacons will be lit at 9.30pm across the country.
Cllr Wilson will be joined by the Lord-Lieutenant of Dorset, Angus Campbell, to light the beacon and veteran Clifford Brown will say the tribute. A fanfare will be played by bugler Colin Bright of the Salvation Army Band
Cllr John Wilson, said: “It is an honour to light this beacon as a symbol of remembrance for the day when peace broke out and brought an end to nearly six years of war across Europe. We want to encourage many of the people of Dorset to come along and commemorate the courage and sacrifice of those brave people, both military and civilian, who saw our country through this dark period.”
The café will be open for hot and cold drinks and parking is free from 7.30pm.
Visitors are advised to bring torches and wear sensible, warm shoes and clothing.
