A £19,000 fund is being made available to help communities across Wychavon mark the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War in Europe.
Wychavon is making £250 available to town and parish councils to support activities on and around Thursday, 8 May, to celebrate a significant milestone in the nation’s history. Parish and town councils will be contacted directly over the coming weeks with details about how they can claim the money.
As well as the dedicated fund, Wychavon is also scrapping fees for road closure notices for anyone holding a street party either on 5 May, 8 May, or over the weekend from 9 to 11 May 2025.
Wychavon will join communities nationwide by raising the VE Day 80 flag at 9am on 8 May. Churches are being asked to ring their bells at 6.30pm and communities are also invited to light a beacon at 9.30pm. At the same time, Chelsea Pensioner Colin Thackery will lead the nation in a rendition of I Vow To Thee My Country.
Although 8 May isn’t a public holiday, communities are still encouraged to hold street parties on the Bank Holiday Monday before, on the day and over VE Day 80 weekend.
Residents are also urged to support their local fish and chip shop by enjoying the nation’s favourite treat in tribute to the courageous fishermen who braved the German U-boats and the farmers and Land Girls who cultivated the fields to keep the country fed. Fish and chips was among the few foods not rationed by the Government during the conflict.
Cllr Aaron Powell, Wychavon’s Deputy Leader and Executive Board Member for Resources, said: “I’m delighted our strong financial position has allowed us to provide this funding to support our communities to mark not only an important anniversary of remembrance but also a celebration of peace.”
Cllr Rob Adams, Wychavon’s Armed Forces Champion, added: "VE Day 80 is an opportunity to ensure the sacrifices and triumphs of those who fought and lived through the Second World War are honoured and remembered, while reminding us of the resilience, unity, and peace that emerged from the conflict. We encourage everyone to come together to reflect, celebrate, and pay tribute to those who secured our freedom."
For more information about how to get involved in activities on the day visit the VE Day 80 website. Advice on how to hold a street party and information about road closures is available on Wychavon’s website.
