Ashfield Voluntary Action gets behind lockdown VE Day celebrations

29 April 2020

Whilst we are living in very difficult times, there have been some real positives as communities pull together, support each other and focus on the things that really matter.

The first Bank Holiday in May has been moved to Friday 8th May to commemorate the 75th anniversary of VE Day and honour the sacrifice that men and women made during the Second World War. 

Whilst many events had been planned prior to the Coronavirus pandemic, these have been moved to the August Bank Holiday. However, people are keen to make the best of the current situation and we hope that local communities in Ashfield will take part in socially isolated street parties to mark VE Day.

If you are fortunate enough to have a front garden, you and members of your household can have your own little street party in your garden at the same time as other people on your street (as long as you observe the Government's guidelines of keeping at least two metres away from anyone outside your household).

Even if you don't have a garden you can still join in, perhaps try your hand at making some VE day bunting to hang in your window, or try some VE day inspired recipes. 

CAKE (Community Action of Kirkby Events) has invited local people to enjoy their own Stay at Home Street Party. So think creatively, get your felt tips out, Granny's recipe book and have some fun.    

The Purple Pumpkin Blog has printable VE decorations, bunting, paper chains and posters you can download which can be found HERE to make the most of your VE Day celebrations.

Her Majesty, the Queen, will be delivering a special address to the Nation at 9.00pm on Friday 8th May to commemorate VE Day and there will be a nationwide singalong to Vera Lynn's 'We'll Meet Again'.

So let's focus on positives, remind ourselves of the debt we owe to the older generation, and in a show of British spirit and the 'keep calm and carry on' mentality let's enjoy the sense of community these difficult times have brought about.

If there is anything else happening locally to commemorate VE Day and you would like us to promote it please contact s.taylor@ashfieldvoluntaryaction.org.uk or ring us on 01623 555 551.