The county is getting ready to mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day.

Sussex played a crucial role in the operation by providing thousands of troops, a contribution that is due to be recognised with many commemorative events and exhibitions.

On June 6 it will be 80 years since the Allied Forces landed on the beaches of Normandy in the biggest seaborne invasion in history.

East Wittering will hold a poignant event on the day, involving a Spitfire flypast, a wreath-laying ceremony and a beacon lighting in remembrance.

The free event is organised by Downview Hall in conjunction with East Wittering and Bracklesham Parish Council and the Women’s Institute and will take place at 7pm.

A spokesman for the event said: “It’s sobering to acknowledge that the occasion may well mark one of the final opportunities for those who fought in World War II to personally participate in such commemorations.

“As we commemorate the 80th anniversary of this historic campaign, we honour their memory and pledge to never forget their selfless service and enduring legacy of freedom.”

Southwick Village is putting on its ninth D-Day Revival event with a focus on nostalgia, fundraising and an exclusive panel discussion with relatives of commanders.

The event will transport people back in time to the conflict and they will be given the chance to take an underground tour of the secret Communications Control Centre and the Map Room at Southwick Park.

This year, Southwick Revival is hosting a “world first” panel discussion with descendants of Supreme Commanders who led the offensive, such as Susan Eisenhower, granddaughter of General Dwight D Eisenhower.

There will be a motorcade through the village followed by a cadet field gun procession.

The full weekend programme can be found here.

Other events in Sussex include:

Rustington and D-Day, June 5: Graeme Taylor tells stories of what was happening at a secret listening post in Rustington around the time of D-Day.

Commemorative service at Selsey’s East Beach Green, June 6, a civic ceremony to pay tribute to those who served in the operation.

Lighting of the beacon (national event), June 6. Beacons will be lit across the county to commemorate the anniversary such as at Shoreham Fort, Littlehampton, and St Roche's Hill (The Trundle), near Chichester.

Southbourne D-Day 80th anniversary event, June 8. A picnic in Southbourne Recreation Ground to celebrate the Allied invasion.

Crowborough care home D-Day celebration, June 1. A wartime era-themed community celebration in collaboration with forces charities featuring music, food, and a display of military memorabilia. 

Seaford D-Day 80 year celebration, June 6. An event involving an address from the mayor, a proclamation from the town crier, music from Seaford Silver Band and the lighting of the beacon by Seaford Bonfire Society. 

Peacehaven D-Day events June 6. The Mayor of Peacehaven is holding an event in Meridian Park led by the Royal British Legion, followed by an evening celebration at Centenary Park at 6pm with a beacon lighting ceremony.

Newhaven Remembers D-Day, June 4 to 9. Newhaven Town Council, Newhaven Fort and Newhaven Museum are running a series of events such as walking tours through the town, an exhibition and the lighting of the beacon at West Quay. 

Councillor Pieter Montyn, chairman of West Sussex County Council, said: “The 80th anniversary of D-Day is a momentous occasion and one I am pleased to see is being marked so well across the county.

“West Sussex has a fascinating link to the Normandy Landings. Did you know the Bracklesham Bay Hotel hosted Eisenhower, Montgomery and Churchill while they observed landing rehearsals at Bracklesham and Climping? I urge you to go and explore more facts and celebrate this anniversary.”