The 75th Anniversary of VE Day will take place this year on the 8th May. Events across the UK will honour the memory of those who fought during WWII.
Victory in Europe Day, commonly known as VE Day in the UK, marks the acceptance of the surrender of Germany by the Allied Forces.
The traditional Early May Bank Holiday has been moved from the 4th May to the 8th May to allow people to celebrate the anniversary.
The Secretary of State for Culture, Digital, Media and Sport (DCMS), the Rt Hon Oliver Dowden CBE MP, has written to MPs to highlight events taking place across the UK.
On 8 May, commemorations in London will begin at Westminster Abbey at noon with a service of thanksgiving attended by hundreds of veterans, including those who served on the Home Front as well as in the Armed Forces.
Extracts from Sir Winston Churchill’s victory speech will be broadcast along The Mall recreating the moment when he addressed gathered crowds in 1945. A fly past by the Red Arrows and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight will take place with a tea party and a an exhibition taking place in St James’ Park.
In Scotland, a VIP reception for veterans will take place in the Assembly Rooms in Edinburgh followed by parade to Princes Street Gardens.
As well as official events, local communities are being urged to upload their own events to the DCMS digital map to allow the public to search for what is going on in their area.
Commenting John Lamont MP said: “On this special anniversary of VE Day, many people will be wanting to celebrate the end of WWII as well as honour those who bravely lost their lives during that time. It is important that we never forget the sacrifices that were made to ensure peace was restored in Europe.
“I am delighted that the UK and Scottish Governments will be marking this important day with special events for veterans and the general public.
“I know that some local communities and organisations in the Borders are planning their own celebrations and commemorations for VE Day. I would urge them all to upload their events to the special government website at https://ve-vjday75.gov.uk/ to allow others to see what is going on in their area.
