Town crier reads out D-Day anniversary proclamation in town square

* Town crier Chem reads out the D-Day proclamation in Centenary Square.

Town crier Austin "Chem" Cheminais read out a poignant proclamation in the town's Centenary Square this morning to mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day. 

The special day commemorates the Allied landings on the coast of Normandy on June 6th 1944.

At precisely 11am Chem, accompanied by a flag party from the Llangollen branch of the Royal British Legion and Father Lee Taylor who led prayer, read the proclamation specially written for the occasion by Christian Ashdown of the Ancient and Honourable Guilds of Town Criers who formerly served with the Household Cavalry.

At the same moment hundreds of other town criers from across the world were reading out the same moving form of words, which said:

“Oyez, Oyez, Oyez

“Today we commemorate the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings in Normandy, France - an incredible achievement in military planning and logistics uniting brave service personnel from air, sea and land forces at the beginning of Operation Overlord.

“By the day’s end, over one hundred and fifty thousand Allied troops had successfully stormed the now famous Gold, Juno, Sword, Utah and Omaha beaches to achieve a toehold in France.

“In the weeks that followed, the Allies fought bitterly against a determined foe from the unforgiving countryside of Normandy to the liberation of Paris two months later.

“We should all remember and never forget the selfless sacrifice and courage of all those involved and use this Commemoration to pay our tribute to those who gave so much to secure the freedom we all enjoy today. God Save the King!” 

Shortly afterwards the bells at St Collen's Church rang out to mark the D-Day anniversary. 

* The Legion flag party and Father Lee Taylor also took part in the ceremony.