Support is still badly needed

TODAY this country will come together to celebrate VE Day 75 and remember the end of the Second World War in Europe after a six-year conflict.

SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity is asking people to mark this pivotal moment in history, and to understand how Northumberland was involved on VE Day and throughout the Second World War.

One of the worst air-raids in Whitley Bay was when the aircraft carrier HMS Victorious was travelling down the river after being built at the naval yard in Wallsend. The Germans dropped land mines and hit houses in Charles Avenue, Ocean View and Oxford Street.

Local Shelia Pyman celebrated with her Dad on the beach at Whitley Bay on VE Day, when military fencing was removed to make an entrance. The local women wore a victory brooch made of a cream coloured shell painted gold and decorated with a ‘V’ in red.

Following VE Day and as the victory celebrations subsided, SSAFA’s then Chairman, Air Vice-Marshal Sir Norman McEwen, made a wireless appeal on Sunday 13 May 1945. He asked the people of the United Kingdom to remember that, for many of the soldiers, sailors, airmen and their families, even though the War had ended, their personal battles had not and, in some cases, were just starting. For those who serve this Nation in any conflict, his words remain as true today as they were then.

SSAFA has been supporting military personnel, veterans and their families for over 135 years. Please help us to continue to provide invaluable emotional and practical support to anyone in need, particularly by generously contributing to our work.

To donate to SSAFA’s Emergency Response Fund, head to ssaf.as/vedonate or text 75VEDay 5 to 70085 to donate £5. Texts cost £5 plus a standard rate message. With my heartfelt thanks,

Sir Andrew Gregory, (CEO of SSAFA, the Armed Forces

charity)