Communities prepare to mark 75th anniversary of VE day amid coronavirus lockdown

Communities across the region are preparing to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the end of war in Europe, as the nation ends another week in coronavirus lockdown.

The May Day bank holiday had been moved to Friday, as residents were encouraged to hold street parties with neighbours and join national events.

But with lockdown still in force, we're being encouraged to take part at home or online.

Large parades and civic celebrations have been cancelled by the coronavirus lockdown.

In Southampton, the Mayor took part in a small wreath-laying ceremony at the city's cenotaph to remember those who died during 6 years of conflict.

Cllr Peter Baille said: "While we are fighting coronavirus we need to remember that the sacrifice of the war was 6 years.

"They were in daily fear of being killed and they met that with fortitude and determination.

"I'm sure in the short time we are dealing with CV we can deal with that in the same way."

In Charing Heath in Kent, residents on one street will be celebrating at a distance, sat in their front gardens.

One resident says: "It's such a shame we haven't got the freedom we'd like but we're going to make the most of what we've got, the weather is going to be lovely and we'll have fun."

Pupils whose parents are key workers at Oasis Academy in Southampton have been studying VE day.

"Having the opportunity to celebrate an event as significant as VE Day allows us to educate through virtual assemblies and events," says Principal Rob Forder, "And also bring joy and happiness to the Lordshill community."

Staff at this Reading carehome hope it will be a fun afternoon for residents.

In Reading, one care home is hosting its own VE day garden party for residents.

Staff will be dressing up for the occasion, with music and dancing.

A singer will be joining celebrations from a safe social distance too.

Residents in Titchfield have been planting flags ready for Friday

Meanwhile at Titchfield Park in Hampshire, some believe that the lockdown means communities will celebrate more than they would have done previously.

"We're finding we are talking to people more, passing our neighbours, social distancing of course, having a chat, finding out about each other, so we're hoping that from here that will just grow," says one resident.

  • Why is VE day remembered?

Huge crowds gathered across London, like here in Trafalgar Square Credit: PA

Known as Victory in Europe (VE) day, the event marks the moment that the Nazi Germany signed an unconditional surrender with allied forces.

Millions took to the streets as Prime Minister Winston Churchill addressed the nation via radio.

King George VI appeared on the balcony of Buckingham Palace, celebrating with the crowds as then Princess Elizabeth stood by his side.

The future Queen then slipped onto the London streets with her sister Princess Margaret, to join in the party atmosphere.

A young Princess Elizabeth served in the Auxillary Territorial Service as a driver during the war. Credit: PA

The day did not mark the final end of hostilities however, as fighting against Japan continued in the far east until August.

The Empire of Japan accepted terms of surrender on 15 August 1945 (Known as VJ day in the UK and commonwealth), before official signing a declaration of surrender on 2 September.