Nantwich paid tribute to the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan Day (VJ Day) on Friday 15 August, with a moving ceremony held beside the War Memorial on the Town Square.

VJ Day marks Japan's surrender in 1945, bringing the Second World War to its conclusion. While the war in Europe ended on 8 May that year, the Burma campaign—fought by the British 14th Army, often called the "Forgotten Army"—continued until August.

By then, many in Europe had begun returning to everyday life, but troops and their families in the Far East were still in the midst of conflict.

A Squadrih 60 RAF Juno HT1 made a low flypast over the Town Square in tribute (Jonathan White).

The Service of Commemoration, organised by Nantwich Town Council, was attended by hundreds who gathered to honour those who served.

Reverend Dr Mark Hart, Rector of Nantwich, led the service and prayers, which included a Piper's Lament, a two-minute silence, the Piper's Reveille, and the Kohima Epitaph.

At midday, a Squadron 60 RAD Juno HT1 helicopter made a low flypast over the Town Square in tribute.

Wreaths were laid by John Dwyer, President of the Nantwich & District Royal British Legion; a representative from Nantwich Weaver Probus Club; and a posy of flowers from the Nicholls family, accompanied by the heartfelt message: "For the forgotten army who fought in the Japanese war. When you go home, tell them of us and say, for your tomorrow we gave our today."

Those present included Councillor Mary Slinn, Mayor of Nantwich, Councillor Arthur Moran, representatives from the Royal British Legion and the Royal British Legion Riders Branch, and British actor and historical interpreter Richard Gumm, appearing as Winston Churchill.

A special guest was 99-year-old Jack Corbett, who served in Burma with the Intelligence Corps and was present during the Japanese surrender.

1940s music was performed by The Funky Choir, featuring songs such as When You're Smiling, It's a Long Way to Tipperary, and We'll Meet Again (Jonathan White).

Music from the era was performed by The Funky Choir, featuring songs such as When You're Smiling, It's a Long Way to Tipperary, and We'll Meet Again.

BBC North West reporter Zoë Toase interviewed dignitaries for North West Tonight, broadcast later the same day.

Commemorations continued in the evening with a VJ Day church service at St Mary's Nantwich, followed by the lighting of a beacon on the Town Square.

READ MORE: South Cheshire shop owner celebrates 15 years of running business.

Free from clickbait, pop-up ads and unwanted surveys, Nantwich Nub News is a quality online newspaper for our town.

Please consider following Nantwich Nub News on Facebook.