VETERANS from East Lancashire who served in the Far East campaign are invited to join the nation in commemorating the 70th anniversary of Victory over Japan Day (VJ Day) on Saturday, August 15.

On the day 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.

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.

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

"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."