SWINDON veterans are being urged to mark the 70th anniversary of Victory over Japan Day (VJ Day) in London.

Veterans of the Far East campaign, former prisoners of war, military and civilian, and their families are invited to mark the 70th anniversary of the end of the Second World War at an afternoon of events in central London.

On Saturday, August 15, a flypast and traditional Drumhead service organised by the Government will take place on Horse Guards Parade at 2pm, attended by senior political and military representatives.

Following the service, veterans and their families, along with serving members of the armed forces, will parade down Whitehall to Westminster Abbey, where a 70th anniversary reception will be hosted for veterans by the Royal British Legion in the Abbey’s College Gardens.

Funding will be provided for Far East veterans, their widows and a carer towards the cost of travel to attend events in London.

The funding towards travel costs has been made available from the Government through fines levied and will be administered by the Big Lottery Fund.

Vice admiral Peter Wilkinson, president of the Royal British Legion, said: “The Royal British Legion is honoured to be involved with the organisation of national events to mark the 70th Anniversary of Victory over Japan on the 15th August 2015.

“Over the years, veterans who served in the Far East after Victory in Europe was announced three months earlier have expressed the sentiment that they often felt overlooked or forgotten.

“While people were celebrating at home and returning to normal lives, those fighting in the Far East were still at war.

“These 70th anniversary commemorations are an opportunity for the nation to show their gratitude to these ‘forgotten’ veterans, and acknowledge the endurance and determination they showed in continuing the fight in the most challenging of environments to bring the Second World War to an ultimate end.”

Veterans and families wishing to attend the events in London should register their interest by contacting their association or the Royal British Legion on 020 3053 7015 or email VJDay70@britishlegion.org.uk.