A ceremony commemorating a landmark anniversary of the D-Day landings has been held in Romford. 

Today (June 6), Coronation Gardens in Main Road played host to an event marking 80 years to the day since Allied troops invaded France as part of Operation Overlord.

Council leader Ray Morgon pictured with Havering mayor Gerry O'Sullivan outside Havering Town HallCouncil leader Ray Morgon pictured with Havering mayor Gerry O'Sullivan outside Havering Town Hall (Image: Sandra Rowse) On this day in 1944, history was made when the largest amphibious invasion ever made its way across the English Channel and onto the beaches of Normandy. 

The event (commonly referred to as D-Day) played a pivotal role in changing the outcome of the battle for freedom during the Second World War. 

The ceremony took place around the Romford War MemorialThe ceremony took place around the Romford War Memorial (Image: Sandra Rowse) Havering and London North East Normandy Veterans Association was in attendance at the commemorations in Romford, along with the Royal Naval Association (RNA), The Parachute Regiment and the Royal British Legion.

Proudly remembering on the 80th anniversary of D-DayProudly remembering on the 80th anniversary of D-Day (Image: Sandra Rowse)

Michael Webb, the RNA chairman for Romford and Hornchurch, said: "It was a brilliant atmosphere. A lot of people turned up. 

READ MORE: Fancy dress shop to close its doors after 30 years in business

Michael (Mick) Webb (right) said it was an emotional ceremonyMichael (Mick) Webb (right) said it was an emotional ceremony (Image: Sandra Rowse) "It was quite emotional really because my father and my step-dad were both Normandy veterans, so it cut home quite close. 

"We had the Colonel there who read out the Normandy prayer and another prayer that was actually written by a Normandy veteran so they were quite touching. 

Gerry O'Sullivan speaks at the serviceGerry O'Sullivan speaks at the service (Image: Sandra Rowse)

"I'm very proud to have taken part in it."

The event was also attended by dignitaries such as Havering Council leader Ray Morgon and the borough's mayor Gerry O'Sullivan.

A memorial honouring those who served and died in the Normandy campaignA memorial honouring those who served and died in the Normandy campaign (Image: Sandra Rowse)

Wreaths were laid during proceedings, including by pupils of St Patrick's Primary School in Collier Row.

The children were also invited for a look inside the town hall by the mayor.