“Let us remember those who gave their lives at home and abroad during the D-Day landings, whose sacrifice enables us all to enjoy the peace and freedom we have today.”
D-Day was the successful allied invasion of the beaches of Normandy on 6 June 1944. Codenamed Operation Neptune, the Normandy landings made up the largest seaborne invasion in history and played a crucial role in liberating Western Europe from Nazi occupation. The New Forest played a vital role: its woods, plains and coastlines were ideal for military training and preparation, and it was close to Southampton Docks. If you are interested in reading more about the local history of D-Day or seeing what events are taking place in the New Forest area in the lead up to the 80th anniversary, download 'D-Day- Events Guide and Stories from a Forest at War'.
The town of Ringwood gathered in huge numbers at the War Memorial Gardens on June 6, 2024, to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings. This solemn occasion was marked by the lighting of a new town beacon and a heartfelt reading of the International Tribute, beginning with the poignant words featured at the top of the page.
The tribute was delivered by Town Mayor, Ringwood Town Councillor Rae Frederick, who reflected on the significance of the event, stating, “This evening has been a fitting tribute to D-Day 80 – dignified, reflective, and an opportunity to express our gratitude to those who gave their lives, so we could have the freedoms we enjoy.”
Some photos from the event area appear below and we thank Trevor Pogson for these lovely images.
Fish and chips played a major part in the D-Day 80 commemorations. They were never rationed during the war and the words were even used as code by British paratroopers dropped behind enemy lines to identify friendly soldiers nearby – one calling out ‘fish’ and hopefully getting the reply ‘chips’. Thanks to the support and involvement of National Fish and Chip Day and the National Federation of Fish Friers, many thousands of fish and chip shops around the United Kingdom took part in the day’s activities. Schools, pubs, hotels and restaurants etc, were encouraged to get involved by serving up this great British tradition in tribute to those who gave so much.
Thanks to all those who supported the intiative in Ringwood and for collecting donations for Ringwood Veteran's Hub.
A special mobile experience travelled around the New Forest featuring poster displays, short videos, and fascinating oral histories recorded by local residents. It arrived in Ringwood on Carvers Recreation Ground on Saturday 1st June 10am to 12:00pm.
There were two wreath laying ceremonies. The first at 10.30am at the Normandy Veterans Memorial in the Parish Church of St Peter and St Paul, Ringwood followed by a short service in the War Memorial Gardens at noon on 6th June. Thanks for Rev. Terry Roberts for leading these services.
A special commemorative flag will remain on display for 7 days.
The Bells of the Church of St Peter and St Paul 'rang out for peace' on 6th June at 6.30pm.
There is a special D-Day Exhibition at Ringwood Meeting House from 31st May to 2 June from 10am to noon each day.
Dec
The Council has a number of vacancies. Click for details and apply to join our team.
Dec
Wishing all Ringwood residents and businesses a Very Merry Christmas and a Healthy and Happy New Year. Click on the image for our opening hours over the Christmas period.
Dec
We have continued to work hard behind the scenes today and have received assurances that the remainder of the town’s Christmas lights will be installed tonight (5th December).
Whilst we do not expect this will draw a line under the matter—there will be important discussions to be had in the New Year—we hope that after tonight we will have a complete and festive display. Our goal remains to ensure that the town looks its best, encouraging everyone to visit and support our local businesses.
Thank you for your continued patience and understanding.
