Over the summer holidays The D-Day Story has a range of activities the whole family can experience together.

On Wednesday 6, Thursday 7, Wednesday 13 and Thursday 14 August the craft activities are inspired by Spitfires and The Battle of Britain, which marks its 85^th anniversary this year.

Make a toy plane to take home or test your aircraft recognition skills with aircraft quizzes and challenges. With toys and games for under 5s, uniforms to try on and object handling there is something for all the family.

The Battle of Britain began in July 1940 with the Luftwaffe (German air force) targeting shipping convoys, ports and dockyards such as Portsmouth.  It was the first major campaign in history to be fought entirely in the air and was a crucial turning point in the Second World War, preventing a German invasion of Britain and boosting Allied morale. It ended in October 1940.

The Royal School of Needlework returns to the museum on Friday 8 August with its family stitch sessions.

The D-Day Story is proud of its long-standing partnership with the RSN, whose members stitched the Overlord Embroidery. During the drop-in sessions children can learn to stitch and try their hand at needlework with an expert RSN tutor.

On Friday 15 August it’s the popular Airfix Extravaganza with South Coast Modellers.

Make your own genuine Airfix at the museum and receive a set of paints to complete it either at the museum or at home.

There is also the chance to explore a display of hand-made models made by members of the South Coast Modellers. They will be on hand to answer any questions and share their passion and dedication for creating realistic models. No need to book. The event is very popular so arrive early to guarantee your spot.

Do you have what it takes to complete the challenges to find the mystery object hidden in the museum? Operation: Spies and Lies will be available on Saturday 2; Tuesday 5; Saturday 9 – Tuesday 12, Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 August. The challenge will take you around the museum, learning more about the objects and people involved in D-Day. You also get an exclusive free D-Day backpack to take home.

Portsmouth City Council Leader Cllr Steve Pitt said: “We have the country’s only museum dedicated solely to D-Day and the Normandy Campaign, a seminal moment in our country, and Portsmouth’s history. Come and explore the fascinating museum this summer, there really is so much on offer.

All family holiday activities are included in the admission price, Airfix Extravaganza is the museum admission plus £2 for the model.

For the full list of events and more information about The D-Day Story, visit www.theddaystory.com