A small-scale reconstruction of D-Day will take place in Redcar next week for the 80th anniversary of the Normandy landings.

The largest seaborne invasion in history, on June 6, 1944, played a crucial role in liberating Western Europe from Nazi occupation.

Events are being held across the region for the 80th anniversary of the operation, and in Redcar, the British Legion and veterans, in partnership with Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, will be hosting a reconstruction of the D-Day landings on the beach, albeit on a much smaller scale.

There will also be fishing boats and military vehicles creating a war scene with flares and pyrotechnics.

Darlington and Stockton Times: Redcar is no stranger to wartime reconstructions, having been used as Dunkirk in the film Atonement in 2006

A parade led by standard bearers, veterans and anyone else who wishes to take part will set off at 10.30am from the beach.

There will be stalls, memorabilia, military vehicles, and goods for sale. Adults and children are encouraged to dress up.

Mayor of Redcar and Cleveland, Cllr Neil Bendelow said: “This event will be a special way to honour the heroes of the D-Day landings all those years ago. Their sacrifice and bravery will never be forgotten.

“There will be lots of things for people to see and do and I’m sure it will be very poignant standing on Redcar beach while remembering the fallen and marking this special anniversary.”

Eric Howden, chairman of Redcar Branch of the Royal British Legion, added: "This is a special day in our national history. Here in Redcar, we have the opportunity to not just commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day but in a very small way to replicate the actual event on our beach.

"We also need to remember our colleagues, families and friends who were involved in that massive assault on the Normandy beaches many of whom didn't return. This is our way of honouring those in our own small way. We ask people to come along and join us."