Carnforth announces series of events to mark VE Day 80

Monday, 24 March 2025 09:51

By Greg Lambert @greglam72

Plans to celebrate the 80th anniversary of VE Day in Carnforth have been announced.

Carnforth Town Council is inviting the whole community to join in on May 8.

The town council is encouraging residents, local community groups, schools, and businesses to decorate their spaces with poppies, bunting, and banners in red, white, and blue.

They are hoping to transform the Carnforth War Memorial Gardens and local premises into a vibrant display of remembrance and tribute.

VE, or Victory in Europe Day, was on May 8 1945 and marked the end of the Second World War in Europe.

The schedule of events is as follows:

9am - Raising of the unique VE Day 80 Flag and a formal Proclamation by the Town Crier in the Memorial Gardens

6.30pm - Church bell ringers across the nation 'ring out for peace' in honour of this special anniversary

9pm - Carnforth Community Choir performs a selection of meaningful songs. Candles will be distributed to attendees to light in remembrance.

9.30pm - The lighting of a beacon by the town mayor, followed by the reading of the Nation’s Tribute and a short service led by the Carnforth Community Choir, concluding with the hymn 'I Vow to Thee, My Country'.

Everyone is invited to participate in the National 'Lamp Lights of Peace' initiative by lighting candles, provided by Carnforth Town Council, around the War Memorial, symbolising our collective remembrance of the sacrifices made during World War II.

Councillor Ian Laurence, Armed Forces Champion, said: “VE Day is not just a day of remembrance; it is a celebration of peace and resilience.

"As we gather to honour the sacrifices of those who fought for our freedom, I encourage everyone in our community to participate in this meaningful tribute. Together, we can ensure that their legacy lives on in our hearts and actions.”

If you’re planning VE Day 80 activities in the Carnforth comunity, please email Leah at admin@carnforthtowncouncil.gov.uk with details and photographs.

Here is how Morecambe will commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE Day.