Newark Town Council to honour wartime generation “not just today, but always” with VE Day 80th anniversary beacon lighting

Today, communities up and down the country will come together to celebrate the 80th anniversary of VE Day.

On May 8, 1945, victory was declared in Europe following Germany’s unconditional surrender to Allied forces, bringing six years of bloody war on the continent to an end.

The news triggered spontaneous celebrations across Britain, with families, friends, neighbours, and strangers filling the streets as peace had finally returned following the darkest days of the second world war.

Now to the mark 80th anniversary of this momentous day in history, towns and villages across the district will be holding celebratory events and street parties.

Here in Newark, a commemorative concert of wartime music will take place in the Market square, followed by a special beacon lighting ceremony after sunset to mark the occasion and to remember the sacrifices that the wartime generation made.

Town clerk, Matthew Gleadell said: “The anniversary is significant as it will sadly be one of the last milestone anniversaries where we will likely see a number of surviving veterans in attendance.

“Needless to say we will never be thankful enough for their efforts.

“The world sadly continues to breed war and conflict and it is only right that we come together in unity as a town and reflect on events of 80 years ago but also show our thanks to service men and women who currently serve in the forces.

“There is nothing quite like music to stir sentiment, emotion and quiet reflection within us and we are delighted to welcome incredible local musicians to perform for us on this special occasion.

“We welcome local residents to the market place to enjoy this occasion as we mark 80 years since victory in Europe.”

Music will be performed by Newark and Sherwood Concert Band, Newark Town Band, and 1940’s singer Jonny Victory, from 7pm and 9pm, speeches will them take place before the beacon is lit 9.30pm to coincide with other events taking place nationally.

There will also be a special military themed light show projected on to the front of Newark Town Hall.

Mayor of Newark, Dianne Ledger, said is would be an emotional but important event and was privileged to be a part of it.

She said: “As I near the end of my term as Mayor of Newark, I find it deeply moving that it both began and ends with two of the most significant anniversaries in our shared history — D-Day and VE Day.

“Last June, I stood alongside our community to mark 80 years since the D-Day landings — an event that changed the course of the war and reminded us of the immense courage shown by so many. And now, almost a year on, I have the honour of presiding over Newark’s commemorations for the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day.

“These bookends to my time as Mayor have reminded me not just of our town’s place in national history, but of the strength and spirit of the people of Newark.

“Our wartime generation showed extraordinary resilience and sacrifice, and it’s our duty, and my privilege, to help keep their stories and values alive.

“As we gather to mark VE Day, I do so with a heart full of gratitude for the generations who came before us, and for the opportunity I’ve had to serve this remarkable community during such a poignant time.

“Let us remember, reflect, and continue to honour their legacy — not just today, but always.”