Northumberland residents asked to turn their homes red, white and blue to mark VE Day anniversary

VE Day, marking 75 years since the guns fell silent at the end of the war in Europe, takes place on Friday, May 8.

The day was to have been marked with a series of local and national events, culminating with a spectacular VE Day concert at the Royal Albert Hall.

While these events have now been cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic, community leaders are still keen that residents pay tribute to our war heroes and celebrate this special anniversary.

Residents are being encouraged to host a ‘Stay at Home Street Party', marking the occasion by decorating their houses in red, white and blue and by having a picnic party with members of their own household, in order to adhere to lockdown rules.

To help plan your day there are lots of family activities and learning resources available online at www.rbl.org.uk/veday75 with extracts from Churchill’s speeches, verteran interviews, lyrics to war songs and much more.

Coun Cath Homer, cabinet member with responsibility for arts, leisure, culture and tourism said: “While we can't have the street parties that had been planned to mark VE Day, I know many people are still keen to mark this special anniversary and there are still lots of ways to celebrate that won't break social distancing rules.

“We hope that residents will share the pride in our country by commemorating our war heroes from the comfort of their homes and make it a really memorable day.

“It’s a nice way of trying to keep everyone’s spirits up at this time and a great way for children to learn about this period in history as part of their home-schooling.

“It’s very important that this is done with social distancing in mind but I am confident local residents will celebrate sensibly and responsibly.”

Coun Ian Hutchinson, civic head, added: “As we face some of the most challenging times since the end of the Second World War, it is now more important than ever for us to come together to remember those who went before us and the sacrifices they made for our freedom.

“Remembering this war generation, with their resilience and determination, I am sure will help inspire today’s generation in these difficult times.”

The country is being invited to unite for a series of national events planned on the day. They are:

11am – 11:02am - Two Minute Silence - a national moment of reflection and remembrance not only in recognition of the service and sacrifice of the Second World War generation, but also to reflect on the devastating impact Covid-19 has had on so many lives across the world.

11.15am – 12pm The Royal British Legion VE75 Livestream on their website, sharing stories and memories from those who served and sacrificed.

3pm - A national toast - raise a glass to the heroes of WWII with the toast: “To those who gave so much, we thank you.”

9pm – National Singalong – join in a UK-wide rendition of Dame Vera Lynn’s We’ll Meet Again.

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