75 years on, Lochaber ready to mark VE Day virtually
After six long years of war, Victory in Europe Day exactly 75 years ago tomorrow (Friday) saw street parties and parades the length and breadth of Britain.
Sadly, however, the current coronavirus pandemic has put paid to any plans for similar events to mark the historic anniversary.
But that does not mean there will be no celebrations here in Lochaber, or elsewhere around Scotland and the rest of the UK, with plans to host a huge number of virtual online activities.
Locally, the Fort William branch of the Royal British Legion Scotland plans to participate by encouraging Lochaber residents to host their own individual celebration parties and linking themselves together virtually or by live
Standard Bearer James Porter, left, and Fort William branch chairman Hugh Macinnes, mark VE Day at the Commando Memorial. and how The Oban Times marked VE Day in 1945.
streaming. Fort William branch secretary, Mrs Jeanette Lane, explained: ‘This is an opportunity for you to pull out your old de-mob suit, or your 40s frock; decorate a room or something in the garden and knock up some cucumber sandwiches and sausage rolls – or something similar.’
If anyone wishes to be part of the virtual group, simply message Jeanette (via the branch’s Facebook page) and she will send you a link to join in, or alternatively just live stream your own party.
The branch standard bearer, James Porter, has also taken part – along with other Legion standard bearers – in the making of a video that will be shown as part of the celebrations.
The ongoing coronavirus pandemic has meant that plans for the landmark anniversary in Scotland – which were to include a parade, public concert and reception – will now take place online, with a video message of thanks from the First Minister and a concert in addition to the service and silence.
Led by Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland in partnership with the Scottish Government, the commemorations will include children and families currently learning at home.
The Legion Scotland Service of Remembrance will be broadcast on Legion Scotland and Poppy Scotland’s social media channels from 10.40am until 11.15am. The online concert will then begin at 11.45am until 1pm.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon’s message will be posted on Twitter @scotgov while Poppyscotland’s online resources can be found at: www.poppyscotland.org. uk/VEDayParty
In addition to virtual events, Poppyscotland has also produced a range of online educational resources for activities for families can use to learn about VE Day and participate in marking the 75th anniversary at home.
The UK’s national events kick off at 2.55pm, live on television and radio. At 3pm there will be a re-broadcasting of the famous speech given by then prime minister, Sir Winston Churchill, announcing the end of the war in Europe.
Following the broadcast, Prime Minister Boris Johnson, will make a speech during which people across the country will be asked to raise a glass, or cup, to toast the heroes of the Second World War, as well as paying tribute to those at home and abroad who also gave so much in the conflict.
And in three months time, on August 15, it will be the 75th anniversary of VJ Day, marking the surrender of the military forces of Imperial Japan and so bringing the Second World War to a close.