Flag raising to start VE Day 80 events in Torridge

A solemn gathering in Bideford this morning (Thursday) saw Torridge District Council gather to raise the flag to commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE Day.

Councillors and officers stood together to mark the event at Riverbank House and observed a two-minute silence to honour those who volunteered, sacrificed, served, fought and died for our freedom.

The ceremony begins a day of VE Day 80 events around the district and going on into the weekend as community gather to remember, light beacons, hold street parties and celebrate.

Beacons and lamps of peace will be lit at 9.30pm in towns and villages across North Devon and Torridge this evening, at the same time as a wave of beacons around the UK.

**** CLICK HERE For a round up of VE Day 80 events taking place across North Devon and Torridge ****

Shop windows across the area are adorned with VE Day themed decorations and bunting, in honour of the monumental day that took place 80 years ago when World War Two in Europe finally came to an end with the surrender of Nazi Germany.

Councillor Doug Bushby, chair of Torridge District Council, presided over this morning’s flag raising and said: “Today's flag-raising ceremony provides an opportunity for officers and councillors to unite in commemorating this significant anniversary.

“Today we remember those who volunteered, sacrificed, served, fought and died for our freedom. We acknowledge their courage and the lasting impact they have made on our lives.

“It is important that we remember that VE Day did not mark the end of the conflict. The war against Japan continued until August 1945, and the political, social, and economic repercussions of the Second World War were felt long after Germany and Japan surrendered.”