THE 80th anniversary of D-Day - the largest seaborne invasion in history - was marked across Craven with the ringing of church bells, services, and the lighting of beacons.

Town criers called a start to Thursday's anniversary of the Normandy landings in 1944 which led to the liberation of France and Europe with a special D-Day 80 Proclamation.

In Skipton, the bells of Holy Trinity Church rang out for peace at 6.30pm, followed by a remembrance service at the war memorial and the lighting of the beacon on the tower of Holy Trinity Church.

The service was accompanied by Skipton Brass Band, and the D-Day poem was read by Skipton Air Cadets and members of the 3rd Skipton Scout group.

James Theodosius, Rector at Holy Trinity Church, Skipton, said: “I am delighted that we can come together to mark this important anniversary, to remember those who bravely fought for freedom and to remind ourselves that freedom requires our participation and service in our own times.”

Toby Garbutt, Skipton Town Council's events supervisor, said: “I would like to thank everyone who attended last night’s remembrance service for D Day 80. It was a stunning service, which paid tribute to the heroes who gave there today, so we could have our tomorrow.

"I would also like to extend my gratitude to the many businesses, community groups, and organisations who assisted in the delivery of the yesterday’s commemorations. It is of the upmost importance that we continue honouring the legacy of D-Day, reflecting on the sacrifices made, and reaffirming our commitment to peace and unity.”