VE Day celebrations in Guildford
Here is the full programme for two civic events to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day on Thursday 8 May.
- At 9am a short public flag raising ceremony will be held at the Guildhall on Guildford High Street.
- From 8pm people are invited to gather for the evening celebration starting at 8.45pm in Stoke Park.
VE Day 80 flag raising ceremony
At 9am on Thursday 8 May, the Town Crier will mark the official start of the day's commemorations with the VE Day proclamation in the High Street.
The Revd Canon Simon Butler will welcome assembled guests and members of the public for a short public flag raising ceremony.
From the balcony of the Guildhall a trumpet fanfare will accompany the raising of the VE Day 80 flag.
Lamplight of peace and beacon lighting
People are invited to Stoke Park from 8pm onwards for the evening celebration. There will be food vans on site, but people are also welcome to take their own refreshments.
The evening's entertainment will kick off at 8.45pm with a performance by professional singer, Emily Martine. In celebration of VE Day, Emily is thrilled to bring the spirit of the 1940s to life, singing a mix of
- classic wartime hits
- swing tunes
- British anthems
These will take you back to the days of victory and resilience.
This will be followed by:
- a formal welcome from Deputy Mayor elect, Cllr Jane Tyson
- a response from Colonel (Retd.) Patrick Crowley MA MBE DL, Deputy Colonel, Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment.
The VE Day Tribute will be read by local actor, Michael Cochrane, as the Lamplight of Peace is lit by a local veteran. This lamp represents the 'light of peace' that emerged from the dreadful darkness of war.
One of over one thousand beacons across the country, will be lit at 9.30pm. Those gathered will be invited to sing the great British hymn "I Vow to Thee my Country". This will be led by the Vivace Chorus as our community stands side by side in gratitude and honours the many sacrifices that secured our freedom. The event will close at 10pm.
Lead Councillor for Commercial Services, Cllr Catherine Houston, said:
"I encourage everyone to be part of this national moment. You can join us at either of our civic events or participate in other local events being held around the borough.
"Let's come together as a community to reflect on the sacrifices made 80 years ago and celebrate the peace and freedom we enjoy today."
If you're near Park Barn Drive, the Honey Pot Café at The Hive will be decorated for VE Day and selling wartime inspired cakes.
We are grateful to Guildford Lions for supporting as marshals at this event. Jelly Tree Productions are providing technical staging.
More about VE Day 80
VE Day 80 is not only a tribute to those who fought for the freedom we all enjoy today, but also a powerful reminder of the resilience and unity that have defined our country ever since.
"Together, we honour the past and celebrate a future built on unity, hope, love and peace." - Bruno Peek CVO OBE OPR, Pageantmaster, VE Day 80.