A short remembrance service for the Truro Air Raid of 1942 took place yesterday in Victoria Gardens to remember the lives lost on that day.

On the evening of August 6, 1942, Truro was the target of a surprise bombing raid by two low-flying Luftwaffe aircraft. The attack resulted in 14 deaths, 65 injuries, and significant structural damage, including over 100 houses damaged and three completely destroyed.

More than 200 patients were being treated at the old Royal Infirmary Hospital when the south wing was destroyed by a 500kg bomb, while a second bomb exploded over Agar Road near St Paul's Church.

Due to the low altitude and speed of the aircraft, British radar systems did not detect them in time, and air raid sirens were not activated. As a result, residents received no warning prior to the explosions.

The service was attended by the mayor of Truro, Cllr Chris Wells, the mayoress, town crier Lionel Knight, along with other representatives of Truro City Council, members of the Truro Branch of the Royal British Legion, members of the Royal Observer Corps, a representative of the NHS, and local volunteers and community members.

The service provided an opportunity for the community of Truro to reflect and remember those affected by the tragic events of that night.

On Friday, August 15, the community of Truro with reunite to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan Day (VJ Day), marking the end of the Second World War.

A formal wreath laying service, led by the Truro Branch of the Royal British Legion, will take place at 11am at Truro’s War Memorial on Boscawen Street.

At 9pm, a beacon lighting ceremony will be held on High Cross as a further tribute to the day’s importance.