Victory in Europe Day celebrated the surrender of Germany’s armed forces on 8th May 1945. The surrender was signed in the morning of 7th May by General Alfred Jodl, Germany’s Army Chief of Staff. By the time the news got out the following day, Europe began its bittersweet celebrations. In true British style, people across Great Britain dragged their tables out into the street, made all manner of dishes with whatever they had in the kitchen, and celebrated the end of a long, devastating world war. People sang and danced with neighbours, they took to the streets to cheer and wave their flags, or took time to remember loved ones they had lost. 

Eighty years on, Europe is getting ready to commemorate this important day in our history. In Wadebridge, there will be a series of events, organised by the town council, that will bring the community together to remember and share stories. 

It all starts in the morning of Thursday, 8th May with the raising of the official VE flag on the town hall, and a Proclamation read by Deputy Lord Lieutenant Gaynor Coley.

In the evening, the bells of Egloshayle Church will ring out in celebration of peace, and there will be a beacon lighting at 9.30pm at Coronation Park, where the Mayor and Rev Juliet Williams will read a tribute, followed by the singing of ‘I Vow to Thee My Country’. 

Bakers, get your aprons on! There will be a VE Day Bake Off on Friday, 9th May. Show off your skills, and get into the celebratory spirit! Baking options include date and walnut loaf, egg and bacon pie, Lord Woolton’s pie, condensed milk cake, and orange and ginger cake. Drop off your entry between 8.30am and 1pm to the town hall, and judging will take place at 4pm. 

Were you a youngster during VE Day? Perhaps your parents or grandparents have passed on their memories to you, or maybe you’ll be hosting a VE Day celebration in your street, 80 years on. If you have a VE Day story to share, email rosie@life-media.co.uk with some information.