Walking Our War Graves: Normandy 2024 wreath laying at Bayeux War Cemetery during the 80th commemorations

A wreath laying on behalf of the top fundraisers Walking Our War Graves: Normandy virtual fundraising challenge took place in Normandy as part of the D-Day 80th Anniversary celebrations last week.

Throughout the month of May, in the lead up to the 80th anniversary of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy, we asked you to walk, cycle, or ride 95km, virtually, across the Normandy region for Walking Our War Graves: Normandy.

With 67 participants taking part across the world, almost £10,000 was raised for the CWGF through registrations, donations and sponsorships. 

A big thank you to all of our participants and donors for their support!

The virtual route started at Ranville War Cemetery and finished at Banneville-la-Campagne, stopping off at other Commission cemeteries along the way telling the narrative of the Battle of Normandy. 

One of these more notable sites, which saw many commemorative events last week, is Bayeux War Cemetery – the Commission’s largest Second World War cemetery in France. 

Individual wreaths were laid for our highest five fundraisers in recognition of their extra achievement. 

The wreaths were laid by our Normandy Guides during the week of the 80th commemorative events. 

Laura Stoker, CWGF Director of Fundraising, said:

"We are incredibly grateful to all our participants and donors for their tremendous support. The funds raised through this initiative will greatly assist us in our mission to preserve the memory of those who gave their lives in the Battle of Normandy and beyond."

If you are interested in reading a selection of stories of casualties from D-Day and the Battle of Normandy then read our latest blog.