Arboretum light trail marks WW2 anniversary

The winter lights trail will be open from 5 December until 22 December

The National Memorial Arboretum is set to share Remembrance stories and new installations as part of its annual winter lights trial.

The 1.5 mile (2.4km) trail at the site in Alrewas, Staffordshire, includes a new route and installations "capturing the spirit of 1945" and marking the end of World War Two, said organisers.

The evening event "transforms" the 150-acre site, they said, and includes new installations which the community helped create.

The trail, which features colourful displays, atmospheric soundscapes and interactive features, opens from 16:30 GMT, between 5 and 22 December.

The route includes a new section through the Far East Zone, encouraging people to "pause and reflect" at the Burma Railway and other memorials.

"Illuminated Arboretum has become a firm family favourite, with people returning year after year to enjoy this constantly evolving experience," said Neill Martin-Hoare, the arboretum's head of events.

"As the nation's year-round place to remember, this year we have hosted key events commemorating 80 years since VE Day and VJ Day, and we were keen to capture the spirit of 1945 within this year's light trail."

Schools and community groups have helped create three new art installations at the site.

These include Lanterns of Remembrance, designed by pupils, and The Forgotten Army, which the arboretum said honours the 2.5m soldiers of the British Indian Army who served during World War Two.

Meanwhile, Remembrance in Bloom features 30 large poppies created by 80 community groups, using recycled materials, during artist-led workshops.