Communities invited to celebrate 80th anniversary of VE Day

VE Day marks 80 years since the unconditional surrender of Nazi Germany, a moment of relief and celebration across Britain and Allied nations.

A series of events will mark the day across Staffordshire including a special weekend of celebrations at the National Memorial Arboretum, taking inspiration from the iconic street parties of 1945. Other activities include local services, a pop-up event at the Staffordshire History Centre and activities in local libraries.

Whether in a town, village or city, people are encouraged to join in, whether that be preparing community gardens, hosting craft events, sprucing up their local areas or encouraging children to draw pictures to put in their windows.

People are also being invited to share their photos and pictures of activity on the VE and VJ Day webpage and across social media using the #VE80 hashtag.

Sir Ian Dudson, Lord-Lieutenant of Staffordshire, said: “VE Day is an incredibly important anniversary and we want to bring our communities together to celebrate.

“VE Day signified the end of the war in Europe, bringing six years of global conflict to a close. The nation rejoiced but it remained a time of challenge with many people facing rationing, the return of loved ones from military service, and the enormous task of rebuilding their lives and towns.

“We’re encouraging people to get into the community spirit for the anniversary by either putting on their own events or taking part in the national celebrations. There’s lots happening over the week, from local services, community activities and street parties including a fantastic week of celebration at the National Memorial Arboretum, which I will be attending on the 8^th itself.”

Darryl Eyers, Director for Economy, Infrastructure and Skills at Staffordshire County Council, added: “This historic day marks the end of World War II in Europe and is an important time to remember the courage of those who fought for our freedom.

“We want everyone to join us in honouring our shared history and celebrating the peace we’ve enjoyed since. Events will be taking place across the county and I’d urge people to take some time and join the celebrations.

“We’re particularly inviting people to visit the new Staffordshire History Centre where they can see a pop-up event and to visit their local library where there’s lots of activities taking place.”

Further details on the anniversary celebrations are available at: ve-vjday80.gov.uk