As the United Kingdom commemorates the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, towns and cities across the nation are gearing up for a series of heartfelt celebrations. On May 8, 2025, communities are honoring the sacrifices made during World War II with various events, from flag-raising ceremonies to beacon lightings, reflecting a collective spirit of remembrance and gratitude.
In Peterborough, the day will kick off with Bridge Street adorned in vibrant red, white, and blue, as the Union Jack is raised outside the Town Hall shortly after 9am. A civil service is scheduled for 9:30pm, featuring a proclamation from the town crier and the lighting of a beacon, symbolizing unity and remembrance. Throughout the day, singers will entertain shoppers, thanks to support from Queensgate, while City College Peterborough plans a vintage tea party complete with a lunchtime sing-along, themed quiz, and photo booth. Additionally, the Peterborough Central Library will showcase a display of Second World War-related books, alongside games and craft activities for families.
Peterborough MP Andrew Pakes expressed his appreciation for the community's efforts, stating, "As we mark 80 years since VE Day, I want to thank everyone in Peterborough for coming together to honour the remarkable generation who secured our freedoms. The way our city has united through commemorations, community events, and quiet acts of remembrance shows the true spirit of Peterborough." He emphasized the importance of remembering the past while looking forward with hope, ensuring that values of service and community remain central to the city's identity.
Meanwhile, Market Harborough has been transformed with over 100 Union Jack flags, installed above shops and businesses by Harborough District Council. This display serves as a vibrant reminder of the sacrifices made during the war and sets the stage for commemorative events planned for the anniversary.
In Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge, celebrations are also in full swing. The day begins with the Union Flag being raised at Burnham-On-Sea Hospital at 8am, followed by a flag-raising ceremony at 9am at the town's flagpole in Abingdon Street. At 2pm, the Royal British Legion in Brent Knoll will hold a ceremony at St Michael's Church, while an "indoor street party" is set for 2:30pm at The Princess Theatre, featuring entertainment and tickets priced from £7.50. At 4pm, the Veterans National Health Support group and the Royal British Legion will conduct a ceremony at the War Memorial in Burnham's Love Lane, welcoming all to join in remembrance.
As the sun sets, a beacon will be lit on Burnham jetty at 9:30pm by Mayor Cllr Sharon Perry, joining towns across the UK in this poignant tribute. A reading of a tribute by the Mayor will take place at the seafront jetty at 9:20pm, leading up to the beacon lighting.
For those unable to celebrate on the actual day, Highbridge has planned a special celebration on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at Morland Community Hub, running from 10am to 2pm. Additionally, a VE Day Celebration Concert will take place at St Bridget's Church in Brean that evening, featuring performances by acclaimed concert pianist Richard Lennox and local vocalist Francesca Bowkett.
Not all communities are able to fly flags, however. St Mary’s Parish Church in Callington has faced challenges as their Union Flag remains missing due to damage sustained in recent storms. The church's flagpole suffered damage, with the pulley detaching from the 30-foot mast. Despite attempts by the fire service to find a solution, the issue remains unresolved. In lieu of a flag, the church will hang bunting for VE Day celebrations on May 8, hosting a civic service at 11:15am, followed by a cream tea and singalong, with donations welcomed.
As communities across the UK come together to honor the 80th anniversary of VE Day, it is clear that the spirit of remembrance and gratitude remains strong. From the heartfelt events in Peterborough to the vibrant flags in Market Harborough, and the poignant ceremonies in Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge, the nation stands united in reflecting on the past while looking to the future.
These celebrations not only pay tribute to those who served and sacrificed during the war but also foster a sense of community and shared history, reminding everyone of the values of resilience and unity that emerged from those challenging times.
