Two-minute silence to mark VE Day 80th anniversary

The Isle of Man will fall silent at midday on Thursday

A national two-minute silence is set to take place on the Isle of Man to mark 80 years since the end of World War Two.

The public has been invited to fall silent at midday on Thursday to commemorate the anniversary of VE Day and commemorate those who fought during the war.

It marks the day when fighting against Nazi Germany in Europe came to an end in 1945.

A Manx government spokesman said the silence will be held to "remember and thank those who fought for our freedom".

A free two-hour big band concert and military service will also be held on Thursday at the Royal Hall in the Villa Marina at 19:00 BST as part of the commemorations.

Organisers have said the ticketed event will feature music from the era, solo performances and narrations by local school pupils.

A traditional drumhead service led by the Royal British Legion will also be held, alongside readings by Chief Minister Alfred Cannan and the Lieutenant Governor Sir John Lorimer.

The service will end with the lighting of a commemorative beacon in the grounds of the Villa Marina at 21:30 BST.

The Manx government has asked that Manx flags fly at full mast to mark the island's involvement in the First and Second World Wars this week.