Bridgend County Borough Council is asking residents to join in the Nation’s Toast to the Heroes of the Second World War on the 75th anniversary of VE Day.
While many events planned for Friday, May 8, have been postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic, organisations such as the Royal British Legion are encouraging people to mark the day from home.
A national two minute silence is taking place at 11am for people to honour the service and sacrifice of the Second World War generation, and reflect on the devastating impact Covid-19 has had on so many lives across the world.
At 3pm, everyone throughout the UK is being encouraged to raise a glass of the refreshment of their choice and take part in the Nation’s Toast to the Heroes of the Second World War in tribute to the millions at home and abroad that gave so much.
Residents are being encouraged to make their own red, white and blue bunting to decorate their windows.
And a range of resources are online to help people celebrate at home – they include recipes, music and dance steps from the 1940s.
The Mayor, Cllr Stuart Baldwin, who has recorded a video message for residents to go out on VE Day said:
“On 8 May 1945 at 3pm, Prime Minister Winston Churchill made an announcement that the war in Europe had come to an end.
“While there were big celebrations and street parties, VE Day was also a moment of great sadness and reflection.
“Millions of people had lost their lives with many continuing to fight in other battles or still prisoners of war abroad.
“The 75th anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect on the enormous sacrifice of people from all walks of life and to say thank you.”
For more details or ideas on how to celebrate visit:
VE Day 75 https://ve-vjday75.gov.uk/
Royal British Legion https://www.britishlegion.org.uk/get-involved/remembrance/remembrance-events/ve-day-75
How to make your own bunting https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/4TrqYDyf4PMdLypxzyTwGDg/great-british-bunting
How to celebrate safely https://www.south-wales.police.uk/en/newsroom/ve-day-75th-anniversary-please-continue-to-protect-the-nhs-and-save-lives-while-commemorating-at-home/