VE Day 2024 Celebration

This two-day community celebration commemorates the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day across multiple locations in town. Thursday, May 8th – Memorial and Remembrance VE Day flag raising in Memorial Garden Town Crier readings throughout the day 6:30pm Memorial Service led by Rev Lynda Lilley with church bells ringing 9:30pm Lighting of three Lamps of Peace at The Maypole, Memorial Green, and Guest Road Play Area. Saturday, May 10th – Community Street Party (10am-3pm) High Street closure transformed with period bunting and decorations Military vehicle display and Home Guard reenactors Ration displays and wartime exhibitions Entertainment including WWII Singer and Punch & Judy performances Street party with free meals via ration ticket system (collected from library) Main indoor venue at Victoria Hall (seating 100) decorated in 1940s style Mini Fish & Chips meal service for authenticity This celebration honors the sacrifice and resilience of the WWII generation while bringing the community together through educational and entertaining activities that recreate the historic atmosphere of 1945.