VALE mayor, Cllr Christine Cave, will take part in the D-Day Memorial Race to mark 76 years since the Normandy landings.

A key event in the Allied victory during the Second World War, D-Day saw thousands of troops invade and liberate German-occupied France, with many losing their lives.

To commemorate the June 6 anniversary, Run 4 Wales has organised a virtual race, with 10K, half and marathon routes based on the 1944 campaign.

Cllr Cave will take part in the event, which is part of military remote running, a scheme that gives soldiers posted all over the world the chance to take part in virtual events while on duty or at home.

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The race is designed to give runners something challenging and motivational to do during lockdown and has been organised in partnership with ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, which provides support to soldiers, veterans and their immediate families.

Cllr Cave said: "It is very important that we commemorate D-Day, which saw a series of crucial events that helped to secure victory in the Second World War.

“D-Day is an event in our history that we will never forget not least because of the loss of life of so many thousands of people.

“Although we cannot meet in large groups due to the coronavirus crisis, I know we will all still want to mark this significant occasion.

“One way I will be doing this is by taking part in the D-Day Memorial race in collaboration with Run 4 Wales and the ABF Soldier's Charity.

“I am not expecting to finish the 10K in anywhere near the times of our service men and women who will be taking part remotely from wherever they are around the world.

“But our running times don't really matter.

“It's just about taking part and showing our support.

“I would encourage everyone to take part in this event if they can.

Acts of remembrance are taking place across the country this weekend and the Armed Forces flag will fly outside the Civic Offices in Barry.