The official logo for 60th anniversary events marking the latter stages of World War II has been unveiled by Veterans Minister Ivor Caplin.

The logo, specially commissioned by the Ministry of Defence, is available free of charge for use by any organisation arranging commemorative events. There are two versions, one in full colour and in an equally-effective black and white format.

The logo is intended to be used on stationery, promotional material, memorabilia and merchandising material, lapel/beret badges and such items.

Designed by Roger Payne in association with Cortexx Ltd, it incorporates two main elements, reflecting both the achievement and sacrifice of the people of Great Britain and the Commonwealth.

The memorial stone effect and the bronze lettering, in the same font as that used on the Cenotaph in Whitehall, represents the sacrifice of those who gave their lives during the war.

And the V shape makes reference to the ‘V for Victory’ trademark two-fingered sign of Sir Winston Churchill, whose determination and resolve inspired millions.

“The 60th anniversary logo will bring continuity to all of the commemorative events which will be taking place this and next year,” said Mr Caplin.

“I hope that everyone will choose to use the logo and identify their own commemoration and remembrance activities with official commemorations across the country.”

Both versions of the logo may be downloaded free of charge or requested on a CD-ROM through the Veterans’ Agency website:

www.veteransagency.mod.uk/remembrance/intro.htm

They may be reproduced freely on signs, literature and websites connected with commemoration events.

If used on literature or websites, use is on condition that it is accompanied by the following words: “Commemoration Logo designed by Cortexx Ltd in association with Roger Payne. Registered design 3015983 copyright Queen’s Printer and Controller of HMSO 2004”.

The logo may also be reproduced royalty-free on commemorative souvenirs subject to product samples being approved.

Samples should be sent to: 60th Commemorations WWII Project Team, Zone E Floor 7, St George’s Court, 2-12 Bloomsbury Way, London, WC1A 2SH.

Two major events are being planned for the last formal publicly-funded commemoration of World War II.

These will both take place on July 10, 2005 – the mid-point between Victory in Europe Day (VE Day) and Victory in Japan Day (VJ Day). Further details can be found on the Veterans Agency website.

Invitations to both events will be co-ordinated by the Confederation of British Service and Ex-Service Organisations, with help from the Royal British Legion.