D-DAY veterans are today due to go back to a top secret Second World War military base in Hampshire to see a memorial unveiled in their honour.

Forty years ago HMS Cricket on the banks of the River Hamble provided accommodation and training for the crews of some of the assault landing craft which were to be involved in the invasion of Europe.

The camp is now part of Hampshire County Council's Manor Farm Country Park and today the county council was due to host an event for more than 20 HMS Cricket veterans.

A short service was due to take place at midday with Countess Mountbatten of Burma dedicating a memorial at Barnfield in the country park to all those who were based at the camp.

A Spitfire flypast was also being planned during the event - which was not open to the general public - plus a reception luncheon.

Later in the day the former servicemen were due to be invited to step aboard a Royal Marine landing craft to take a short trip along the River.

A collection of memorabilia, records and memories from the veterans will provide a permanent display at the country park's Barnfield information kiosk which overlooks the new memorial.