Commemoration events continue this weekend, 80 years after the crew of a Polish warship stepped in to try to stop bomb damage during The Blitz, in World War Two.

The ORP Blyskawica, which was in dock on the River Medina, is credited with saving lives in Cowes and East Cowes.

The Polish warship had been in Cowes for repairs but, aware of a potential attack, its captain Wojciech Francki, ordered ammunition from Portsmouth which meant its guns could be used to bolster the Isle of Wight's defences.

Since 1942, there have been strong ties between the ship's crew and their descendants and the two Isle of Wight towns.

Scroll down to find out what events are taking place today (Saturday) and tomorrow. Above, scroll through pictures of the ORP Wodnik, which arrived on Thursday and is at anchor off East Cowes for the commemorations. 

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What events to commemorate the Blyskawica are taking place on the Isle of Wight this weekend?

Saturday, May 7

10am – 6pm East Cowes Town Hall: Exhibition on the Blitz, school art and stalls (refreshments available)

10am – 6pm Northwood Cemetery, Cowes: Exhibition on the Blitz

1pm – 4pm Kings Square (outside Waitrose), East Cowes: Performances by Little Karpaty and Karolinka Dancers and a Polish food market

2.30pm Cowes Blitz Walk (from the war memorial in Northwood Park to Northwood Cemetery, approximately one hour)

4pm Northwood Cemetery, Cowes: Rededication ceremony of the refurbished communal war grave.

Sunday, May 8

12pm Short remembrance ceremony at Francki Place, Cowes

1.30pm Cowes Parade Commemoration, 80th Anniversary Ceremony of the defence of Cowes and East Cowes. Inauguration of the new Consulate of the Republic of Poland in the presence of Poland’s UK ambassador. The Royal British Legion Band will play too.