STORIES of the war passed down through generations are to go on public display in Sturminster Newton to mark this year's Remembrance Day.

Gay Wilson, funeral co-ordinator at The Co-operative Funeralcare in the town, will be decorating the branch's window ahead of November 11, with the story of her mother and father during World War Two taking centre stage.

Remembrance Day this year also marks the 101st birthday of Gay's mother, who was born on Armistice Day and was given the middle name Peace.

Gay, who has lived in Sturminster Newton for 21 years, said: "My father always had great true stories to tell us all about the war, some of which we heard a few times, but nevertheless were always fascinating to hear. This time of year is especially poignant for my family as my mum was born on November 11, 1918. She went on to have 11 children, starting with my sister who she was pregnant with when my dad joined the army. She was born in 1940."

The experiences of Herbert John Ling and Lilian Peace Ling during the Second World War were recorded decades after the fighting ended, by Gay's niece as part of a project at school. Pages of the couple's memoirs will be displayed in the window of the funeral branch in Station Road, with the rest available to read inside.

The account includes Herbert's journey to Malta on a convoy carrying ammunition and food supplies. The ship was attacked, but with quick thinking and bags of flour the crew managed to sail safely into Valletta Harbour.

Gay's father also recalls the terrifying moments they were beached off the coast of France just days after D-Day. Lorries were able to unload their supplies but the crew had to wait until the tide came back in before they could return to sea.

Gay added: "My father was a hero to me and my family, but we also remember all of the heroes that fought for us and our country during both World Wars."

Poppies will be available to purchase inside the branch, with all donations going to the Royal British Legion.