A FAMILY day in Woodley was also an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who lost their lives.
Woodley Town Council’s D-Day 80th Anniversary picnic in Woodford Park, provided entertainment from The Hipcats who played 1940s swing and jazz music; circus entertainment,and face painting.
The event was officially opened by Woodley town crier, Tony Roper, who welcomed everyone and read out the official town crier tribute.
Speeches from Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Berkshire Mr Richard Anderson, Woodley Town mayor Cllr Juliet Anderson, Wokingham Borough mayor Cllr Adrian Mather, and Woodley Town Council town clerk Kevin Murray, reminded visitors what a special occasion D-Day was for the world.
Mr Anderson’s father was in the Royal Artillery.
Wearing his father’s beret and medals, he shared some of his father’s wartme stories and memories with the assembled crowd.
Cllr Anderson talked about Woodley’s role in World War II.
She explained that the village was the location for an elementary flying training school, and that local roads, including Bader Way named after wartime pilot Douglas Bader, reflected this.
As people across the nation celebrated the Light of Peace, at 9.15pm a beacon was lit, followed by the sounds of gunfire, to honour those who fought at the D-Day landings.
A National tribute was read by Woodley Town deputy clerk Matthew Filmore.
For information, visit: www.woodley.gov.uk
