Veterans and families invited to mark 70th anniversary of VE Day

Celebrations to mark anniversary of the end of the Second World War to be held in Newbury

PEOPLE across West Berkshire are invited to celebrate the 70th anniversary of VE Day on May 8.

Following nearly six years of war with Nazi Germany, the Allies accepted the country's unconditional surrender in Reims on May 7 and in Berlin on May 8. The day, marked as Victory in Europe Day, officially ended the Second World War in Europe.

People across the world celebrated the Nazi capitulation. In Britain, people threw street parties and gathered in Trafalgar Square and The Mall, where King George VI, Queen Elizabeth and the Prime Minister Winston Churchill appeared before the crowds on the balcony at Buckingham Palace.

The reported that the streets of the town were gaily decorated with flags and were crowded with shoppers buying provisions for the two-day public holiday.

People gathered in the Market Place for the town service of thanksgiving, and the square was later crowded with revellers who sang and danced into the small hours. Commonwealth and US servicemen, along with young women, also celebrated with a dance in the Corn Exchange.

In line with national commemorations, Newbury will be holding a brief service at the town’s war memorial, commencing at 2.45pm on Friday, May 8, with a two-minute silence at 3pm.

Then, on Sunday, May 10, the mayor of Newbury, Jo Day, is inviting families and veterans to celebrate the 70th anniversary with a picnic around the bandstand in Victoria Park from noon until 3pm. Music and entertainment with a 1940s theme will be played and there will be traditional games and rides aimed at re-creating the atmosphere from 70 years ago.

Mrs Day said: “This is a community event, suitable for all ages, and I look forward to seeing a number of family groups and veterans bringing their picnic rugs and enjoying the atmosphere and fun of this celebration.”

Those wishing to perform during the afternoon, in line with the theme of the event, or people and organisations wishing to help in any way, should contact the Mayor’s Parlour via email to mayor@newbury.gov. uk, telephone (01635) 41583 or by letter to Mayor’s Parlour, Town Hall, Market Place, Newbury, RG14 5AA.

(Picture taken in 1995 marking the 50th anniversary of VE Day)