Rarely seen images of Britain during the Second World War were projected onto Buckingham Palace on 4 July 2005 to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the end of the war. 

The projection show will run for six consecutive evenings until 9 July 2005, showing more than 300 images from the Hulton Archive donated by Getty Images.

Secretary of State for Defence, John Reid, who formally 'switched on' the show said:

"The Palace seemed the natural choice as a host building for the projection show.  It was and remains an important icon of the Second World War and was a natural focal point for the public during the war and especially on VE Day, when the Royal Family appeared on the Balcony to greet a sea of cheering faces as far as the eye could see."

Seven high-powered scrolling projectors put on the show, dividing the front of the palace into five screen areas.  Starting at 9.30pm the images are shown in three twenty-minute sessions.  Those standing in the Mall or at Canada Gate will have the best views.

"These are amazing images," said Mr Reid.

"They give a real insight into what life was like for everyone that lived through the war, whether as a civilian living through the Blitz or as a serviceman on the battlefield."

Click on the pictures to the right to see larger versions of the projected images >>> [Phot: Allan House]

Related articles:

•  Commemoration of the 60th Anniversary of the end of World War Two

Related links:

• WW2 60th Anniversary Commemorations
• Veterans Agency
• Veterans Agency - Calendar of Events
• Imperial War Museum
• Their past-your future
• The Royal British Legion
• WW2 Peoples War
• Big Lottery Fund