VE Day celebrations mark the 80th anniversary of war’s end
VICTORY: Winston Churchill gives his famous victory sign to the multitudes in Whitehall on VE Day. Picture credit: War Office official photographer Major WG Horton
By Simon Bristow, Co-Editor
Street parties and a memorial event are to take place as part of activities marking the 80th anniversary of VE Day.
Celebrations and commemorations honouring the Second World War generation began on Saturday, May 3, when the film Hull Victory Celebrations was screened at Hull History Centre.
It showed how crowds of all ages took to the streets on a day of national euphoria celebrating the defeat of Hitler’s Nazis after six long years of struggle.
Acquired from Yorkshire Film Archive, the screening was accompanied by a display of original historical documents selected from the history centre collections.
On Monday, May 5, a street party was set up in East Park, with picnic tables, VE Day-themed tableware and flags, as well as themed entertainment.
Any Second World War veterans attending received a commemorative pin badge to thank them and mark the national date of remembrance.
On the anniversary tomorrow the charity Hull 4 Heroes will host a free street party in the lower deck of Princes Quay, which will include food and live music between 11am and 2pm.
At 11am a memorial event will be held at the Cenotaph in Paragon Square, led by the Royal British Legion.
And in Bransholme, arts and community organisation Back to Ours will hold a street party in its Bransholme Chat shop at North Point shopping centre, where guests will be welcomed by a 1940s character and enjoy food and drink with entertainment.
Chris Jackson, director of regeneration at Hull City Council, said: “The 80th anniversary of VE Day is a poignant time for the country to come together, remember those who gave their lives, and celebrate this historic date.”
Martin Taylor, city archivist at the history centre, said: “Hull’s experiences in the Second World War transformed the city physically but also the way it is viewed by its citizens.
“VE Day came as a huge relief, an opportunity for celebration but also reflection and mourning.”