THE opening of an exhibition showing a town’s contribution to the D-Day landings 75 years ago will be attended by one of the sailors on duty as allied soldiers poured onto the beaches of Normandy.

On Saturday Darwen Heritage Centre will host the start of the two-month display showcasing how the area’s people played a host of roles actually involved in and supporting the invasion which launched ‘Operation Overlord’ which led to the defeat of Nazi Germany.

Guest of Honour will be William Allan Jepson, known as Allan, who was on board destroyer HMS Melbreak as it provided covering gunfire for American troops landing on Omaha Beach on D-Day itself, June 6, 1944.

Exhibition organiser and heritage centre secretary Albert Gavagan said: “Allan was on communications duties on HMS Melbreak in June 1944 patrolling the Channel.

“On June, 5 1944, HMS Melbreak sailed for Omaha Beach where on the June 6 she provided naval gunfire support close to the assault beach heads. After firing off most of her ammunition she sailed back to Plymouth carrying just enough to protect herself in case of attack. Allan was given a 48-hour pass and used this to get home by train to let the family know that he was safe. Arriving in Darwen at 6am having slept all the way in the corridor. Allan arrived to spend time with his family on Earnsdale Road before setting off back to his ship at 10pm.

“The exhibition includes stories and photos showing what was taking place in the mills in terms of war work. This included Walpamur’s contribution of black and white paint used on the invasion aircraft as part of their special recognition markings, to the cutting of aluminium card into strips for the RAF to use as ‘window’ to disrupt the German radar and communications which was done at the Hollins Paper Mill.”

Mr Gavagan added: “There are people who were involved before, during and after the day itself, and alongside their stories are photos from the time as well as secret documents which are now made available to the public.

“In the cabinets alongside to support the display are artefacts on loan to the centre including medals, log book, models, personal insignia, all related to the people who have shared their stories.”