Vernon Kay to host show from Normandy for Radio 2 D-Day 80: Live

This Thursday morning, Vernon Kay will present his BBC Radio 2 morning show live from Normandy to mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day, when thousands of allied soldiers established a foothold across the French coast in order to liberate North-Western Europe.

Broadcasting live from the seafront in the Normandy town of Arrromanches – the geographical centre of the D-Day Landing Beaches – Vernon will speak to military personnel past and present about the largest seaborne invasion in history. He’ll also hear from the families of the D-Day soldiers on what their relatives experienced as they headed ashore, as well as chatting to those who will give further context to what became the start of the liberation of France.

Also, he’ll hear listener voicenotes and messages on their family links to D-Day, and, how 80 years on, the importance of what was achieved that day is never forgotten.

Vernon says, “It’s important we never forget and always honour the bravery and sacrifices made by those brave soldiers 80 years ago on D-Day, so I’m incredibly proud to be broadcasting my show from Normandy and presenting this commemorative concert on Radio 2.”

After Vernon at 12, Jeremy Vine is live from Portsmouth. We’ll hear the story of what happened from those who were there, and those who have given their lives to studying the momentous events of that day. Jeremy will hear listeners’ stories of their links to D-Day, as well as discussing the crucial role Portsmouth played in the war effort. He’ll also have a special interview with David Eisenhower, the grandson of Dwight D Einsehower, then the Supreme Allied Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Forces in Europe. Music will be provided by the Portsmouth Military Wives Choir.

Listen on BBC Sounds.

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