Veterans and home front heroes are to be honoured

Details have been announced of the celebrations to coincide with the UK national day of commemoration on 10 July.

Some 8,000 people, including veterans and war widows, will join Wales Remembers 1939-1945.

Wales will link with UK-wide events via a giant screen in Bute Park, Cardiff.

The day is being organised jointly by the Welsh Assembly Government and Cardiff Council and will be hosted by First Minister Rhodri Morgan and council leader Rodney Berman.

"This is Wales' chance to thank war veterans, home front workers and war widows for the sacrifices they made during the dark days of World War II, and also celebrate the hard-fought freedom they won for future generations," said Mr Morgan.

A great many people across Wales will welcome this opportunity to mark their respect Cardiff Council leader, Rodney Berman

The parade will start from The Hayes in the city centre at about 1030 BST and follow a route along Duke Street, Castle Street and into Bute Park.

A service will take place at from 1100 to 1145 at Cooper's Field, near Cardiff Castle. Veterans will attend a lunch with invited guests.

Winners of a schools competition will also have a chance to put questions to veterans on their wartime experiences.

Mr Berman said he hoped people from across Wales would be part of the commemoration.

"We would like everyone involved in the war effort in Europe, the far East and elsewhere to be a part of it," he said.

"We want it to cover the 60th anniversary of VE Day and VJ Day.

"It is vital we remember the sacrifice made so many on our behalf and I am sure a great many people across Wales will welcome this opportunity to mark their respect," Mr Berman added.

Tickets are free, but will be needed for the event inside Bute Park.