On 8 May 1945, in a live radio broadcast, Winston Churchill told an expectant nation that the war in Europe was finally over. Declaring a national holiday with the words, "We may allow ourselves a brief period of rejoicing; but let us not forget for a moment the toil and efforts that lie ahead."
In Newcastle and across the UK people celebrated. The pubs stayed open late, the streets were filled with singing and dancing, parties and parades. But along with the joy and relief there was sadness for those who had lost their lives, prayers for those still fighting in Asia and the Pacific and horror at the images coming out of the Nazi concentration camps.
Today there are few left who remember the war or Victory in Europe (VE) Day but it is still important to mark these historic events with the government announcing four days of national events.
Community events
In Newcastle, the council are encouraging people to remember the brave men, women and children who sacrificed so much for the freedoms we have today. And as in 1945, they want people and communities to be at the heart of the VE Day 80 commemorations.
Over 20 groups and organisations will receive small grants to help with the cost of hosting a VE Day celebration event in their local area. Activities include street parties, World War 2 themed cooking and a video and podcast that will create a lasting tribute to the Second World War generation.
Exhibition offers chance to Remember and Reflect
VE Day 80 is also a chance to learn what life was like during the war. To find out more about the servicemen who fought, the women on the home front and the children who were evacuated.
A special exhibition, Remember and Reflect, will feature memories and photos of local people who lived through World War 2 alongside wartime posters, recipes and games and photos from the Imperial War Museum. The free exhibition will be on display in the Arches at the Civic Centre from Friday 2 May to Monday 12 May.
Tribute to the fallen
Local people are also being invited to attend a commemorative event on Thursday 8 May, the eightieth anniversary of VE Day.
The event, which is being held on Ceremonial Way, will begin at 9pm will include music from the Band of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, a VE Day speech from the British Army’s North Region Commander and a tribute to the fallen.
The commemoration will end with the lighting of the flambeau beacons in honour of all those who served.
Councillor Karen Kilgour, Leader of Newcastle City Council, said: “Those who lived during World War 2 sacrificed so much so that we could live in peace. Their values, selflessness and willingness to fight for not only their county, but for what was right and just must never be forgotten.
“In 1945, VE Day was a joyful occasion but it was tinged with sorrow for those who lost their lives and fear for those still fighting the war in the Far East and we wanted to reflect all of those emotions in our commemorations.
“I am delighted that by combining support for local events across the city with an exhibition and commemorative event we have been able to give local people the opportunity to remember, reflect and pay tribute as well as celebrate a victory that shaped the way we live today.”
Pam Smith, Chief Executive of Newcastle City Council, said: “The sacrifices made by a generation of men and women during World War II cannot be overestimated. The people of Newcastle played their part in so many ways and their bravery must never be forgotten.
“Our VE Day events will recognise the contribution local people made to the war effort, honour their courage and celebrate the hard-won freedoms that we must not take for granted today.”
Find out more
For more information see on VE Day 80 events in Newcastle see our page on: