On the evening of 5 June 1944, thousands of allied servicemen were waiting courageously for the signal to launch. In the 24 hours that followed, the troops of D-Day achieved the unthinkable, pushing the boundaries of ingenuity, bravery and sacrifice.

Eighty years later, as night falls, a reflective and poignant event will be held at the Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery in Bayeux. The Princess Royal, accompanied by Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, alongside actors, musicians and currently serving military, will help mark the memories of those who took part, to hear their voices and to honour those who never made it home.

With readings, music and veteran testimony, the event will lead towards a unique moment of remembrance. As darkness descends, there will be a moment of light that focuses the nation’s minds and hearts on the price that was paid for D-Day’s success as all 4,600 headstones are individually lit.

The UK section of the broadcast which follows will mirror this lighting effect with a D-Day-themed show accompanied by a live musical performance creating the audio backdrop.

Presented by Kirsty Young, with accessible commentary for the blind and partially sighted provided by Petroc Trelawny. Show less