VE Day 80th anniversary: Newark showed its pride as town lit up for victory with special beacon lighting ceremony and music from Newark and Sherwood Concert Band, Newark Town Band, and 1940s performer Johnny Victory
Hundreds gathered in Newark Market Place last night to proudly 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, and triggering spontaneous celebrations across the county.
Eighty years to the day, the people of Newark once again came out in force in the Market Place to mark this most momentous day in our nation’s history.
The evening began with two hours of glorious and nostalgic music, provided by the Newark and Sherwood Concert Band, and Newark Town Band, as well as 1940s performer Johnny Victory.
Then, as the sun began to set, the crowds were treated to the spectacular sight of the Town Hall adorned with poppies and Union Flags as part of patriotic projection, organised by Newark Town Council.
As the clock struck 9pm, a parade of cadets, and standards of military and veterans organisation from across the area, were brought to attention, and the Rev Danny Marshall offered a blessing.
The Deputy Lieutenant of Nottinghamshire, Air Chief Marshall Sir Andrew Pulford, then stepped onto the dais and addressed the crowds.
He reflected on what could be learned from the dark days of the second world war, and said it was up to us, in the modern day, to maintain the legacy of those who fought for our freedom.
Then, a special commemorative beacon was lit to mark the occasion at 9.30pm, to tie in with thousands of other beacon lighting ceremonies happening up and down the country.
As the bells of the Parish Church rang out across the town centre, the Mayor of Newark, Dianne Ledger concluded the ceremony by speaking of remembrance and appreciation for the wartime generation.
The evening ended with a rousing rendition of “I Vow to Thee my Country” and National Anthem, which was sung loud and proud by all in attendance.
The level of support on show proved that despite eight decades having now passed since victory was declared in Europe, Newark will never forget the sacrifices that the men and women of this country made in the pursuit of freedom.
