Ahead of the long weekend and the 75th anniversary of VE Day, the message from government remains consistent: the best thing we can all do to prevent the spread of the virus and save lives, is to stay home.
But that doesn’t mean people can’t commemorate VE Day. We know many are already organising fantastic celebrations from garden to garden, but for any residents who would like additional ideas, there is:
- A virtual service you can watch or listen to from 3pm with music, memories and speeches celebrating the occasions and paying tribute to the entire Second World War generation from British, Commonwealth and Allied Forces, to evacuees and those who served on the home front
- A virtual service at 3pm from Peterborough Cathedral, led by the Dean Christopher Dalliston and Canon Ian Black, the Vicar of Peterborough. Watch by visiting the Cathedral’s Facebook page and also as a video via the Cathedral’s website.
There will also be a number of activities throughout the day on Friday that residents may want to join in with:
11am: A two-minute silence to honour the service and sacrifice of the wartime generation and reflect on the devastating impact Covid-19 has had on so many lives across the world.
11.15am: Join the Royal British Legion’s VE Day 75 Livestream. Grab a cup of tea and tune in as the generations of the Second World War and today are brought together to chat about their shared experiences. Hosted by TV presenter Sonali Shah, the 45-minute programme will feature stories from those who served and sacrificed, as well as recognising the difficulties people are experiencing today.
3pm: The Nation’s Toast to the Heroes of World War Two. Take part by raising a glass, cheering and clapping on your doorsteps and saying: “To those who gave so much, we thank you.”
9pm: A pre-recorded address by the Queen will be broadcast at the exact moment her father, King George VI, gave a radio address on May 8 1945.
9pm: Fancy a sing-along? After the Queen’s address, the nation is invited to come together in a rendition of Vera Lynn’s We’ll Meet Again on BBC One.
Best wishes for the bank holiday weekend.
Bridget Smith (Leader, South Cambridgeshire District Council)