Amongst the many commemorations taking place both nationally and across the district to mark the 75th anniversary of VE Day on 8 May, will be a special message to residents from the Chairman of Warwick District Council and Armed Forces Covenant Champion, Councillor George Illingworth.

Despite the cancellation of all the planned community events because of the coronavirus pandemic, Councillor Illingworth is keen for local people to pay tribute to the service and sacrifice made by so many in World War Two.

Councillor Illingworth’s message has been posted online and as part of the celebrations he is inviting everyone to be in their gardens or front door at 3pm on VE Day to join him in raising a glass to thank all those who in various ways saw us to victory in Europe 75 years ago.  

In addition to the Chairman’s message, Warwick District Council has organised a number of activities to help local people to celebrate VE Day at home. These include painting pebbles, decorating bunting, writing a poem or sharing a commemorative photograph.

Councillor Illingworth commented;

“While we are unable to mark this anniversary in the way that we had hoped or planned I hope that individuals and families across the district will take the opportunity to share in a national day of celebration, commemoration and remembrance.”

Some other ‘virtual’ events taking place this weekend are the VE Day Fantasy Champion Hurdle which will be screened on the Warwick Racecourse Facebook page at 7pm on 8 May (with proceeds going to the Royal British Legion), a children’s VE Day art competition at the Brunswick Hub and a talk on Montgomery by Ian Binnie from the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers Museum (Warwick).

Get ideas and activities for celebrating VE Day at home.