D-Day 75 Tour Day 1

Hereford Cathedral Choir are currently in Normandy, taking part in the D-Day 75 Commemorations, read more here.

Wednesday 5 June

After an early start, today the choir and accompanying staff travelled to Bayeux for the first of three rehearsals.

First stop was the stunning Bayeux Cathedral where preparations were underway for tomorrow's Royal British Legion service. The choir were able to become familiar with the space and practice their pieces as well as exploring the cathedral. Then followed a short walk to the Bayeux War Cemetery where Thursday’s commemoration event will take place. The ceremony, which will be broadcast live on BBC 1, will be attended by veterans and dignitaries. We were fortunate to spend a few hours at the cemetery this morning, enabling all involved to consider their surroundings and spend some time reflecting on the importance of the occasion.

After a morning of rehearsals, the choir took the opportunity of a free hour to explore the Bayeux Tapestry before returning to the coach for the next stage of the journey to Arromanches. As part of the rehearsal for the commemoration ceremony which will take place on the seafront tomorrow, the choir walked through the town whilst singing. Many people who are already in Arromanches stopped and watched the performance, which was greeted with a round of applause.

The final part of Wednesday’s itinerary was Evensong at L’abbaye aux Dames, Caen. During the service, a silence was held and wreaths were laid in tribute to those who had given their lives. In attendance at the service were two D-Day veterans, members of the Welsh Guards and a primary school from Croydon. It was a very moving service which, not only provided a peaceful and calm ending to a busy day, but also prepared all involved for Thursday’s acts of commemoration.

On Thursday 6 June, BBC 1 will be live broadcasting the D-Day Commemoration events. For more information click here.