Portrush Selected to Host Beacon Lighting for 80th Anniversary of D-Day Landings

Portrush will be the location for the 80th anniversary commemorations of the D-Day landings for the Borough, marking a pivotal moment in ending World War II. The proposed event includes lighting a beacon at East Strand.  An update on progress of the event is being presented to council members next week.

On June 6, 2024, similar events will take place across the United Kingdom, Channel Islands, Isle of Man, UK Overseas Territories, and notably at Gold Beach in Normandy, the site of the historic landings.

The council previously received the official ‘Guide to Taking Part in D-Day 80 on 6th June 2024’ from pageantmaster Bruno Peek, detailing various activities and their significance.

On December 5th, the council resolved to:

• Register its participation in D-Day 80 by lighting a beacon at either East or West Strand in Portrush;

• Invite His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant, along with the Mayor or Deputy Mayor, to officiate the beacon lighting;

• Extend invitations to members of the Royal British Legion Group 10, covering all groups in the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough area;

• Approve the purchase of an additional beacon.

Councillors will be updated that the beacon has been ordered and is due for delivery next month. Initial arrangements have been made with the 152 RLC Regiment regarding their availability for the event, and council officers will coordinate with the president of Group 10 RBL.

Additionally, the event's format is expected to resemble the Poppy drop at East Strand during the Airshow.