How South Tyneside will mark 75th anniversary of VE Day during lockdown

Victory in Europe Day - or VE Day - marks the momentous day in history when Winston Churchill declared an end to the Second World War in Europe in 1945.

In line with Government guidance and the need to stay at home due to coronavirus, mass gatherings have been cancelled, with communities urged to mark the occasion from the safety of their own homes.

South Tyneside will join cities and towns across the UK to take part in a three-day national celebration at home, from Friday, May 8- Sunday, May 10.

South Shields Town Hall will fly the flags of the UK’s allies as part of local commemorations and the colours of the Union Jack – red, white and blue – will be beamed onto the building and clock tower.

Residents are encouraged to hold indoor picnics, afternoon teas and raise a celebratory toast to heroes at home.

Schools and care homes will also be sharing photos of their celebrations featuring bunting and window displays on the council’s social media channels.

The Mayor of South Tyneside, Councillor Norman Dick said: “Although there won’t be any formal services taking place in South Tyneside, it is extremely important that we commemorate the 75th anniversary of VE Day. It marks an iconic moment in our history – a day that peace spread across the continent, bringing an end to nearly six years of war and carnage in Europe.

“We are proud to be part of the national day of remembrance and reflection. It is a time for us all to honour all those who sacrificed so much and showed great courage and determination to secure the freedoms that we enjoy today.

“Though we are all apart, we can still unite to mark this significant occasion, which is why we are calling on people to help recapture the spirit of post-war Britain and to remember and give thanks to the Second World War generation from the safety of their own homes.”

The UK’s official commemorations will begin at 11am with a national moment of remembrance and a two minute silence.

A televised National Toast will take place at 3pm, marking the moment that Prime Minister Winston Churchill announced the end of the war in Europe.

The Queen will then address the nation at 9pm.

Councillor Ed Malcolm, Chairman of South Tyneside’s Armed Forces Forum, commented: “VE Day not only enables us to celebrate this special anniversary but to remember all those people from all walks of life who sacrificed so much for their country.

“Despite the current difficult circumstances we all find ourselves in, we are determined more than ever to unite communities just as they did 75 years ago to recognise such incredible service to the nation, to pay tribute to all those who served in the Second World War and to reflect on the impact it had on our history and on the future of our country.”

Follow South Tyneside Council’s social media channels throughout the day using the hashtag #VEDay75

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