Celebrate VE Day at home, urges council
6th May 2020
... Comments
Eastbourne Borough Council is encouraging people to stay safe at home to celebrate the 75th anniversary of VE Day on Friday (May 8).
With social distancing measures in place, residents are being urged to mark the historical moment with activities at home and online instead.
The Mayor of Eastbourne, Councillor Steve Wallis, said: "This year's celebrations will not be on the scale originally planned but there are still ways to join in the occasion from home. Most importantly, we hope people will take this opportunity to remember and pay tribute to the Second World War generation. They gave so much to secure peace and prosperity in Europe and we owe them a great deal."
Official commemorations marking the day the Second World War ended in Europe will begin at 11am with a national moment of remembrance and a two-minute silence.
Other plans for the day include: The Prince of Wales will read an extract from King George VI's diary from 8 May, 1945; Members of The Royal Family, the Prime Minister and the Culture Secretary will take part in video calls with Second World War veterans; Churchill's famous victory speech will be broadcast as part of the BBC special programming; Second World War veterans will receive calls from NHS Volunteer Responders; The Queen will send a message to the nation at 9pm. This will be followed by a national singalong of Dame Vera Lynn's "We'll meet again." People are encouraged to open their doors and join in with this national moment of celebration.
The Mayor added: "Whether you are planning a stay-at-home party or simply raising a toast, do join in this special day while staying safe."
Anyone wishing to decorate their home with bunting or posters for a party at home can print out templates from this website by clicking on "toolkit."
