Would you like to be a part of this year’s commemorative events marking the 80th anniversary of D-Day?

80 years have passed since D-Day and the contributions of local people, some of whom gave their lives, are being remembered. Thurrock has a particularly unique story to tell as tens of thousands of allied troops and their equipment were moved to Tilbury to board the boats that would be taking them to their assigned beach on D-Day.

In June, as part of a programme of events coordinated by Thurrock Council, we will be partnering with Ensign to display artwork designed by local children on one of their buses. 

Thurrock’s Mayor Cllr Sue Little will join a veteran and ex-art teacher to consider all entries at the end of April. It is envisaged that a montage of the art submitted will form the design for the bus wrap-around.

We are currently looking for sponsors to help support this event.

The 80th anniversary will also include an exhibition with support from the Arts Council Heritage Lottery Fund, as well as community-led events to light beacons at key points across Thurrock, afternoon tea will be held at Tilbury Cruise Terminal, and an art competition will seek to engage young people in Thurrock’s specific story.

If you would like to know more about this opportunity and learn how you can get involved, please contact [email protected] by 26 April 2024.