In pictures… 1945 VE Day celebrations in Staffordshire
VE Day, or Victory in Europe Day on Thursday 8 May, marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe.
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The day celebrates the formal acceptance by the Allies of Nazi Germany's unconditional surrender in 1945. It's a day of celebration and remembrance, honouring the sacrifices made.
Pictured are families of Shaw Place, a cul-de-sac off Buxton Road in Leek celebrating the day, eighty years ago. Adults and children also celebrate around a table for a VE Day party in Sandon Road, Stafford. In Uttoxeter, residents of Westlands Road, Hockley Road and Stafford Road are pictured in a large group photo at another celebration party.
Meanwhile, workers in the meter shop at English Electric Co., Stafford can be seen with flags ready to celebrate VE Day. Here, women employees were involved in the production of vitally important precision instruments to assist with the war effort.
The images, which capture the mood of the nation at the time, are being shared by the Staffordshire History Centre as part of the commemorations. In addition to sharing the photos, a pop-up event will also take place at the centre from 10.30am to 1pm on 8 May. Further details are available at VE Day 80 at the Staffordshire History Centre - Staffordshire History
Joanna Terry, Head of Archives and Heritage at Staffordshire County Council said: “VE Day signified the end of the Second World War in Europe, bringing six years of bitter fighting to a close.
“We’re incredibly lucky to have such a fascinating collection of photos which help lift the lid on what life was like at the time. These photos capture how Staffordshire people marked the end of the war in 1945.
“People can view the collection of photographs for free, along with thousands of other images relating to the county’s history on the Staffordshire Past Track website. We’re also hosting a pop-up event at our new centre on VE Day itself , featuring objects you can handle, craft activities and a spotlight talk. So, if you haven’t visited us yet, then this is the perfect time to do so.”
People are also being invited to share their own 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 is also inviting people to join the celebrations and said: “VE Day is an incredibly important anniversary and we want to bring our communities together to celebrate.
“We’re encouraging residents, businesses and organisations to get into the community spirit by either putting on their own events or taking part in the national celebrations. I do hope people can take some time to celebrate with us.”
