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 Bodmin, there will be a series of events that will bring the community together to look back and share stories.

In Bodmin, this will start with a Parade of Standards and a declaration by the town crier on the Folly at 9am, followed by a short remembrance service at the memorial in Priory Park. 

A service of remembrance and wreath laying is set to be held at Bodmin Keep in the morning of Thursday, 8th May, an event that will be delivered by Bodmin Keep, the DCLI, SCLI, Light Infantry and Rifles Association, and Bodmin Town Council to remember the sacrifice of all those in the United Kingdom, the Commonwealth and Europe. 

In the evening, the beacon will be lit as part of a nationwide initiative.

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. 

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