VE Day celebrations happening in Basingstoke

VE Day 80 celebrations are coming to Basingstoke and Deane.

Basingstoke will celebrate the 80th anniversary of VE Day with a programme of events on Thursday, May 8.

The Top of the Town in the town centre will host performances and activities to mark the historic day, starting with a flag raising service at 10am at the civic offices, led by the mayor of Basingstoke and Deane Dan Putty.

At noon and 1pm, The Bluestockings, a group of female vocalists dressed in authentic 1940s Royal Air Force uniforms, will bring to life the harmonies and choreographed style of singers like the Andrews Sisters.

Then at 5pm and 7pm, Scratchbuilt Productions will present an interactive family show The Thornycroft Girls: The Women Who Helped Win the War.

Based on the true stories of the women who worked at the Thornycroft factory in Basingstoke, where they built military vehicles during the war, this 25-minute performance features a life-sized kit car children can ride in.

And lastly, from 8pm to 9pm, the Willis Museum will light up with projections to transport audiences back 80 years to the VE Day street parties held in Basingstoke, offering a unique glimpse into the town's history.

Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council’s cabinet member for sports, leisure and culture Kerry Morrow said: “We hope that this programme of events will be a fitting way to mark this significant milestone in our country’s history.

“We want our residents to remember those that played such a huge part in securing victory in Europe 80 years ago.

“I’d urge people to come along to this celebration of music, history and community, bringing their family and friends together for an unforgettable experience.”