Raise a toast to our war heroes and catch it on camera.

That's the call from Dover District Council whose chairman and leader ask people to continue to mark the 75th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day despite the coronavirus lockdown.

Social distancing has prevented the parades and events that would usually celebrate three quarters of a century since Second World War guns fell silent on Friday, May 8.

DDC's chairman Cllr Michael Conolly, is leading the Nation’s Toast at 3pm, joined virtually by council leader Cllr Trevor Bartlett and the council’s Armed Forces representative Cllr Oliver Richardson.

They invite local residents to play a special part in the day by sending photos in of their own personal toast on the day.

The council will create a montage video that will be shared online as part of the Nation’s thanks.

Cllr Mike Conolly, Chairman of Dover District Council, said: “It’s a great honour to lead the Nation’s Virtual Toast to the Heroes of WWII, and to encourage the residents of the Dover District to mark this major 75th anniversary by sending us their photos for a commemorative video, as we join together to pay tribute to those millions at home and abroad who gave so much to protect our freedom and our future.”

The district's towns of Dover, Deal and Sandwich played a big part in fighting the enemy during the Second World War and with its robust castles, and concealed forts, it has been involved in protecting the coastline since Roman times.

Commemorative events for this important 75th anniversary are being coordinated nationally and internationally by Bruno Peek, Pageantmaster, VE Day 75.

Mr Peek said: “The involvement of Dover District Council, along with dignitaries from the area, is an important aspect of the VE Day celebrations this year, especially as Dover played such an important role during WWII.”

Please email community@dover.gov.uk with your photos by Saturday, May 9.

To read about the Armed Forces and how they have served Kent and beyond, click here.

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