Soldiers and veterans offered free VE Day travel

VE Day is being commemorated on Thursday

Veterans and serving UK armed forces personnel have been offered free bus travel to Victory in Europe (VE) Day events across Essex.

Gatherings are being held to mark 80 years since Allied forces accepted Germany's surrender in World War Two on 8 May 1945.

First Bus said eligible passengers could take up its offer from Monday until Sunday.

Commercial director James McCluskey said it was the company's "way of saying thank you".

Cities, towns and villages across Essex will be hosting VE Day commemorations throughout the week.

Military vehicles, live 1940s music and historical talks are planned from 10:00 until 17:00 BST in Chelmsford on Monday.

In Southend-on-Sea, live entertainment will be hosted in Priory Park between 15:00 and 16:30.

Further events will also be held in Maldon, Braintree, Witham and Basildon.