VE Day Celebrations

8 to 10 May 2020

VE Day Programme

This programme of events for the VE Day Celebration of 75 years since the end of World War 2, has been compiled using information issued by The Royal British Legion, HM the Queen’s Pageant Master, and the BBC.

Friday 8 May 11.00 – 11.02 – Two Minute Silence
A two minute silence will be observed throughout the nation where everyone will have the opportunity to recognise not only on the service and sacrifice of the World War 2 generation, but also to reflect on the devastating impact that the Covid-19 virus has had on so many lives around the world. People are invited to take part in The Silence in whatever way they feel appropriate, standing at their window, stepping outside their own home taking care to observe social distancing, or taking the opportunity for a period of silent personal reflection.

Friday 8 May 11.15 – 12.00 – Royal British Legion Live Stream
Royal British Legion Live stream on www.rbl.org.uk/veday75. This programme hosted by Sonali Shah, will share stories and memories from those who served and sacrificed in World War 2.

Friday 8 May 2.55 pm – The Last Post
The playing of The Last Post from the top of St Peter’s Church tower by bugler Christopher Lindley followed by one minute’s clapping to recognise and thank not only those involved in whatever form in the conflict of war, but also the many people who are selflessly providing a range of services and support to the peoples of this nation during this current unfortunate situation. This event will be filmed and available on the Thorner Facebook Page, and the Benefice You Tube Channel.

Friday 8 May 3.00 – Toast to the Heroes of WW II
The Nation’s Toast to the Heroes of WW II All are invited wherever they are to raise a glass and undertake the following toast “TO THOSE WHO GAVE SO MUCH, WE THANK YOU” Since this will be the first time such a tribute has even taken place, please encourage others to join in. Those who happen to be taking the daily exercise, or in the confines of their own homes and gardens may wish to pause and participate in this.

Friday / Saturday 8/9 May – Stay at Home Street Party
Stay at Home Street Party Decorate your house red, white and blue and enjoy a celebratory picnic in your own front garden

Friday 8 May 6.55pm – A Cry For Peace
A Cry for Peace Around the World The Reverend Andy Nicholson will present and record the Cry For Peace Around the World, which will be available to view on the Thorner Facebook page and the Benefice You Tube site

Friday 8 May 8.00pm to 9.00pm – BBC 1 – The People’s Celebration
VE Day 75. The Peoples Celebration on BBC 1 To mark the 75th anniversary of VE day, in these unprecedented times, the BBC in partnership with The Royal British Legion will honour and celebrate the World War Two Generation with an evening of memories and music. Featuring some of those who remember this historic day, together with Britain’s favourite performers who will entertain us with popular songs of the era.

Friday 8 May 9.00 pm – Her Majesty the Queen’s address to the nation
Her Majesty the Queen’s address to the nation TV and Radio Friday 8 May 2020 9.10 pm In a fitting finale at 9.10 pm again on BBC 1, we will see the nation unite for a very special rendition of “We’ll Meet Again” as we all give thanks to our veterans and remember our loved ones.

Sunday 10 May – Tribute to The Millions
Reverend Andy Nicholson will record and present the very poignant reading “Tribute to The Millions”, which will be available to view on the Thorner Facebook page and the Benefice You Tube site shortly thereafter.