Taunton Deane Council is supporting the Somerset County Gazette's calls to help fund the Normandy Veterans' last pilgrimage to the scene of their finest hour.

The Taunton branch of the involved in the D-Day landings is taking 49 former soldiers to France to mark the 60th anniversary of the turning point of the Second World War.

Mayor Andrew Govier is to present a cheque for £350 to the Normandy Veterans Association on Monday to help offset the cost of the trip -- £349 for each member.

Last week, the Gazette asked readers to dig deep to help the veterans achieve the dream of visiting Normandy one last time.

Donations should be sent to Mr A. Helbert, Normandy Veterans Association, c/o The Royal British Legion, Mary Street, Taunton.