Arctic convoy veterans from across the region have been invited to share their memories of the Second World War with an audience at a special commemorative event.

Eastern Daily Press: Jack Smith with his Russian medal. Picture by SIMON FINLAY.Jack Smith with his Russian medal. Picture by SIMON FINLAY.

The Russian-speaking society in Cambridge is marking the 70th anniversary of the end of the war by honouring those who risked their lives keeping open the sea route between Britain and the USSR during the conflict - a link Winston Churchill described as 'the worst journey in the world'.

The convoys helped supply the Soviet Union with supplies and ammunition to continue the fight against the Nazis.

Among the veterans hoping to be at the event is Richard Gould, from Park Lane, Downham Market, who plans to attend with his son Patrick Gould.

Mr Gould, 94, from Park Lane, Downham Market, said: 'I'm looking forward to it.'

He travelled back and forth on the Royal Navy battleship HMS Howe, to Murmansk in northern Russia, for 10 months escorting merchant ships.

Jack Smith, from Page Close, Poringland, near Norwich, has also been invited, although he is currently uncertain whether he can make it.

The 93-year-old, who served for three years on HMS Starwort, said: 'It would be a real pity If I could not make it,' A spokesman for the Russian-speaking society said: 'The veterans are full of life and humour and look forward to sharing their special memories with the Cambridge audience– a conversation with them promises to be deeply moving and inspiring.'

Do you have a story about our Second World War veterans? Email david.bale2@archant.co.uk