Crowds remember bravery of heroes

CEREMONIES ACROSS THE REGION TO MARK 80 YEARS SINCE VJ DAY

- By PAUL BRITTON

CROWDS gathered at war memorials and at ceremonies across Greater Manchester yesterday to observe the 80th anniversary of VJ Day.

Victory in Japan Day on August 15, 1945, marked the end of the Second World War.

Services of remembrance came as the King made an audio broadcast to the nation, promising the service and sacrifice of Second World War heroes who fought and died in the Pacific and Far East would never be forgotten.

His Majesty said: "For the millions of families gathered around their wireless sets, and for their loved ones still serving far from home, it was the message a battle-weary world had long prayed for.