60th Anniversary of D Day Celebrations in Rolleston
Sunday 6 June

On the morning of 6 June 1944, Allied troops began landing on the beaches of Normandy. So began the greatest seaborne invasion in history, and with it the eventual liberation of Europe.

Rolleston on Dove celebrated the 60th Anniversary of the Normandy Landings with a whole day of events. The day began with a parade of the uniformed organisations, of ages ranging from World War II veterans to Cubs and Brownies. The parade left the Scout Headquarters at 9.30 and arrived at St. Mary's Church for a special Service called "Rolleston Remembers" taken by the Rector, Rev. Ian Whitehead, who preached to a congregation of over 200, including the Chairman of the Parish Council, Mr John Morris, and many colour bearers from the uniformed organisations, led by the Royal British Legion. Led by the Choir and the organist, Jim Ottewell, the congregation sang appropriate hymns, interspersed with traditional readings and prayers, and ending with the National Anthem. The colours were laid up at the altar during the Service and were then carried in procession to Rolleston Club. The salute outside the Church (see above) was taken by Vicky Trelinska. At 11 am, the colours were raised on the flagpole on the Club bowling green by two veterans, and refreshments were provided in the lounge.

The colours were lowered at 8 pm, and a large crowd of villagers, many in wartime dress, packed the lounge for an evening of 40s entertainment, with wartime songs led by "The land Army Gang". The Club Chairman and his wife, Jim and Beryl Toon, put on a magnificent free buffet, which included corned beef and spam sandwiches. Sadly the beer, though excellent, was not at 1944 prices! Proceeds from the raffle were given to St Mary's Church to help with the ongoing programme of improvements to the fabric.

	The colours were raised by two veterans at 11 am (see left) and the colours were lowered at 8 pm (see above).

Last updated: 19 December 2004