Hartlepool armed forces groups issue call to arms for VE Day lockdown celebrations

A host of official events had been planned to take place in town over the weekend of May 8-10 including 1940s street parties at the Heugh Gun Battery and in Church Square, with the council providing a stage, entertainment, tables, chairs and street decorations.

An evening function organised by the Armed Forces Liaison Group at the Town Hall Theatre, was also due to take place.

Although they have had to be cancelled because of the coronavirus outbreak, Hartlepool Armed Forces Liaison Group says people on lockdown can still mark the important anniversary within the confines of their own homes.

Spokesperson Ian Griffiths said: “Just because we can’t get together and mark VE Day on May 8 with our friends, family and old comrades, it doesn’t mean that we can't celebrate within the safety of our own homes.

“Bunting is a colourful and easy decoration for the kids to make, and, weather permitting, will add to the Street Party effect if you hold a family picnic in your garden.

“All at Hartlepool Armed Forces Liaison Group hope that you have an enjoyable and nostalgic VE Day celebration, while staying safe at home, and we will all be back to celebrate together for next year.”

Mr Griffiths said there are several good TV broadcasts on VE Day including an address by the Queen at 9pm, a broadcast of Winston Churchill's historic speech, and a line up of today’s stars singing We'll Meet Again.

The Royal Artillery Association has issued a nationwide call out for standard bearers to parade on their lawns at 11am on May 8.

Northern regional controller Tug Wilson, of Hartlepool, said: “The 75th anniversary of VE Day is an important one. A lot of people paid the ultimate penance.

“I am going to put some bunting and flags up and play The Last Post and Reveille.”

The National Museum of the Royal Navy, which has a site in Hartlepool, is teaming up with the National Army Museum and the Royal Air Force Museum to host a free online Virtual VE Day Festival at www.nmrn.org.uk

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