Portsmouth's Express FM is proud to announce an historic series of broadcasts as our great city prepares to be the focus of national commemorations for the 80th anniversary of the Normandy landings.
The News has published a comprehensive round-up of D-Day events taking place locally next week.
In partnership with Pompey Poetry Party, local poets - including schoolchildren - will be sharing their own works, other moving literature and first-hand diary accounts from those on the front line with Express FM listeners all next week. These will also be made available for listening online and on the Express FM app.
On Tuesday 4 June, Express Breakfast will be live on-location as veterans take a Brittany ferry from Portsmouth to France to take part in the country's own memorial events. It is not yet known if a planned salute by the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight will take place following the tragic death of a pilot in Lincolnshire on Saturday.
Express FM will also be reporting from the Royal British Legion D-Day Memorial Service taking place from 10:30am to midday at the D-Day Memorial in Southsea, which includes a Military and Veterans Parade, as well as broadcasting live from Armed Forces Day on Southsea Common and Southwick Revival on Saturday 8 June and Sunday 9 June.
As the national commemorative event takes place in the city on 5 June, Express FM aims to proudly fly the flag for Portsmouth and will be keeping you up-to-date with the latest travel news on this day.
Pompey Poetry Party co-founder Caroline Brennan said: "Pompey Poetry Party is honoured to contribute to Portsmouth's cultural and historical commemorations for D-Day 80. It has been a humbling experience to step back in time with Express FM as we pay tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of the men involved in the Normandy landings.
"Unveiling some of the poignant and tremendously moving stories of D-Day serves to demonstrate how important it is to preserve this legacy for future generations. It is vital we keep these stories alive and use them to open up conversations about modern conflict and our global experience of war."
Express FM Content Manager Harrison RB said: "As the headquarters and main departure point for military and naval units in D-Day, it is right that Portsmouth always takes centre stage in the annual commemorations; and this year is hugely significant as we mark the 80th anniversary.
"As Portsmouth's local radio station, Express FM is honoured to be involved in these historic events to reflect the enormous gratitude and respect for the veterans as well as the pride local people have in our city playing such an important role.
"We'd like to thank our partners at Pompey Poetry Party and The News for supporting Express FM's coverage next week. This is a huge occasion for Portsmouth and we are truly honoured to be part of it."
LISTEN: Express FM and Pompey Poetry Party join forces for D-Day 80 commemorations
