FAREHAM's Fort Nelson will highlight the nation's immense debt of gratitude to those who liberated Europe on Victory in Europe (VE) Day with a Second World War salute and gun firing.

The immense achievement of the Allied forces who freed Europe from Hitler's tyranny 63 years ago will be remembered at the Royal Armouries' museum on Portsdown Hill next Thursday.

To mark the occasion, visitors will see a wartime uniformed detachment of gunners with a Sexton self-propelled gun, similar to the example pictured above, mounting a 25-pounder quick-firing field gun.

Firings will take place at noon and 3pm.

There will also be dramatic performances by the professional, uniformed actors of the Royal Armouries' historical interpretation team, telling the stories of those who lived through the conflict and the role of Fort Nelson in the war effort.

The Royal Armouries 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 more than 350 cannon dating back more than 600 years.

The collection originated from HM Tower of London and has been on display in Hampshire since 1995.

Museum entry is free and there is a range of attractions for all ages including secret underground tunnels and chambers to explore.