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VJ Day - Fort Nelson Pays Tribute to the Forgotten Army

Fort Nelson will present the Second World War story of the Chindits - part of Britain's gallant Forgotten 14th Army in Burma - to commemorate the 63rd anniversary of the Victory over Japan.

Fort visitors on Friday, August 15 will be able to enjoy Second World War themed, dramatic interpretations, including performances where they can meet an actor dressed as a British Army Gurkha Officer. He will tell the story of one of the Chindit missions - the greatest raids behind enemy lines of the entire War.

The poignant presentations will follow the firing of an impressive 5.5inch Howitzer, by a Second World War uniformed detachment of gunners at 12noon and 3pm on both the Friday and Sunday. The Howitzer was used to great effect during the 1939-1945 conflict, in the jungles of the Far East - and in Europe too.

The programme on both days also includes guided tours, telling the story of Fort Nelson's contribution to the War effort. For those who can't make it on VJ Day, the Howitzer firing will be repeated on Sunday, August 17. (Please note the actor is only present on the 15th).

Fort entry is free and there is a whole range of attractions, designed to appeal to young and old alike.

The Royal Armouries' Museum at Fort Nelson, Portsdown Hill, Fareham, houses the national collection of historic cannon and big guns. The museum has one of the world's finest collections, with over 350 cannon dating back over 600 years. The collection originated from HM Tower of London and has been on display in Hampshire since 1995.

The fort's Powderkeg Café is open seven days a week offering home-cooked Hampshire fare.

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Note to editors:

Reporters and photographers are welcome at the event, please call in advance if possible. The fort is steeped in history and a tailored guided tour can be arranged. If you would like copies of photographs of past activities please email or call using the details below.

Media contact: Catherine Kelly/Joss Loader, Primary PR Ltd.
Telephone: 01903 783832, 07704 130226, 07838 379599.
E-mail: info@primarypr.co.uk

About the fort:

The Royal Armouries at Fort Nelson houses the national collection of historic cannon and big guns. The museum houses one of the world's finest collections with over 350 cannon dating back over 600 years and from every corner of the earth. The collection originated from HM Tower of London and has been on display in Hampshire since 1995.

The Royal Armouries at Fort Nelson also tells the story of the Palmerston Forts, built to protect Portsmouth from a feared French invasion in the 1860's.

Every day, visitors can see one of the big guns fired in salute, watch our resident actors bring to life characters from 1,000 years of history, explore secret underground tunnels and enjoy incredible views from the ramparts. An extensive programme of special event spectaculars takes place throughout the year.

Fort Nelson is open every day except 24th, 25th & 26th December. April to October 10am -5pm (Wed 11am-5pm), November - March 10.30am - 4pm (Wed 11.30-4pm).

Admission to the Royal Armouries is FREE.

Admission charges apply to some events.

Information line: 01329 233734

Website: www.royalarmouries.org

Email: fnenquiries@armouries.org.uk

The Royal Armouries is the national museum of arms and armour with sites at Fort Nelson, Leeds, HM Tower of London and Louisville, Kentucky, USA.