The dawn of VJ Day 2020, 75 years after the cessation of hostilities with Japan that marked the end of the Second World War, was marked at 6am in Bulphan.

Piper Jo Goddard played 'When The Battles o'er' - a retreat march signifying the end of a conflict - and the sound drifted across the village where, later today further tributes will be paid, including the tolling of the church bell 75 times.

In nearby Orsett there will be a short, private ceremony by members of the far East Veterans Association and former Burma Star Association members. Earlier this morning Thurrock Nub News editor Neil Speight visited the memorial garden in the village to read the Kohima epitaph: See video report here. .

There are no official commemorations by Thurrock Council but virtual VJ Day tributes will be shared on the council's social media channels including videos from: Thurrock Council Cabinet Member for Communities Cllr Deb Huelin, Mike Ostler from the Far Eastern Veterans Association and Thurrock Burma Star Association, and Rod Oakley chairman of the Royal British Legion Grays Branch.

A special light display will also be put on outside the Thameside Complex, Grays, this evening.

Yesterday (Friday, 14 August) the council announced the completion of a new Victory Memorial in Grays Town Park but there has been nor formal ceremony or dedication.