Shrewsbury Town Council is inviting members of the public to join a special Service of Commemoration marking the 86th Anniversary of the Battle of Britain on Sunday 13 September at the War Memorial in The Quarry, Shrewsbury.

The Battle of Britain, fought between July and October 1940, was a decisive moment in the Second World War and the first major battle in history fought entirely in the air. With the threat of invasion facing Britain, the Royal Air Force defended the country's skies against the German Luftwaffe, in what became Nazi Germany's first major military defeat.

The courage of the RAF pilots who became known as “The Few” has become synonymous with the Battle of Britain. However, the victory was also made possible by thousands of people working behind the scenes - from radar operators and observers to ground crews, aircraft factory workers, plotters and controllers.

The RAF's Battle of Britain aircrew also came from across the world, with personnel from 16 different nations taking part. Around a fifth of the aircrew were not British, reflecting the international contribution to the defence of Britain.

The Service offers an opportunity for the community to come together in gratitude and remembrance, paying tribute not only to those who served during the Battle of Britain, but to all those who have served in the Royal Air Force and Armed Forces since.

Order of events:
- 10:30am – Guests asked to arrive at the War Memorial in The Quarry
- 10:45am – Parade of RAF personnel leaves Quarry Place, followed by the Mayoral Party and VIPs
- 10:50am – Service of Commemoration begins
- 11:00am – A Two Minute Silence will be observed, with a flypast expected, weather permitting
- 11:02am – Wreath laying
- 11:15am – Closing prayers, followed by RAF personnel marching back out of The Quarry

The Town Council warmly welcomes everyone to attend this poignant occasion of remembrance, as together the community honours those who served, remembers those who made the ultimate sacrifice and ensures their legacy is carried forward for future generations.

The Battle of Britain is commemorated nationally each September, with 15 September recognised as Battle of Britain Day, marking the major air battle fought on that date in 1940.