VE Day 75th Anniversary Commemorations

Date: 
Wednesday, 6 May, 2020

VE Day logo

Friday 8 May is the 75th Anniversary of VE Day and whilst the early May UK Bank Holiday has moved from Monday 4 May to Friday 8 May this year, the commemorative activities that were being planned can no longer take place as a result of the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic.

This significant anniversary is still being recognised and remembered, as Provost Alan Brown explains, “Although I had been looking forward to joining the commemorative events being planned in East Dunbartonshire, and share your disappointment that these are no longer possible, there are still ways that we can recognise this significant anniversary.

“The UK VE Day organisers are encouraging us to participate in the ‘Nation’s Toast to the Heroes of WW2’ at 3pm on Friday 8 May.  From the safety of our own homes we are invited to toast the many millions at home and abroad that gave so much to ensure we all have the freedom we have today.

“And while we are unable to visit exhibitions in art galleries and museums at the current time, our colleagues in the EDLC Trust are sharing social media posts of their VE Day 75 memorabilia over the course of Friday 8 May and the weekend.  Do look out for these, and details of the Lenzie celebrations which I was due to attend and which will now take place ‘virtually’ – we will be sharing details and activity through our Council social media channels.

“I look forward to resuming Civic Duties once the restrictions in place to control the spread and manage the impact of coronavirus (Covid-19) are lifted, and will visit all those whose anniversaries and birthdays I have been unable to attend during lockdown.  In the meantime, I hope that you and your families are staying safe and well in these challenging times.”

Poppy Scotland have put together some ‘lockdown learning’ resources for children to learn about the significance of VE Day, and suggestions, including WW2 recipes for having a VE day party at home.  They will be broadcasting a virtual Service of Remembrance through their Facebook page at 10.40am on Friday 8 May, followed by a tribute featuring performers who had been due to participate in an event in Princes Street Gardens in Edinburgh.  Visit www.poppyscotland.org.uk for details.


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