Today marks 80 years since VE (Victory in Europe) Day, when the Second World War ended in Europe.
This special anniversary is an important opportunity for communities to come together to honour the bravery and sacrifice of the wartime generation.
Waverley Council stands in solid remembrance of this pivotal day and will pay tribute to all those who served, sacrificed and supported the war at home and abroad.
Today, the Mayor of Waverley, Councillor John Ward, will attend events in Farnham. He will also attend the Guildford Cathedral Service on Sunday, 11 May, along with the Mayoress, for their VE Day civic service.
Councillor Ward said:
“On VE Day, we pause to remember the courage and sacrifice of those who fought for freedom. Their resilience and unity shaped the future we enjoy today, and their dedication remains a source of inspiration to the current generation of Armed Forces personnel, many of whom live, work and serve in or near our borough. As a community, we honour their legacy by coming together to celebrate peace, democracy, and the enduring strength of our nation.
“I would also like to take the opportunity to reaffirm the borough’s enduring commitment to the Armed Forces Community. Our Armed Forces Covenant is a solid promise to those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces, and their families, that they will be treated with fairness, respect and gratitude in the communities they call home.”
The council also recognises the vital contributions of veterans, reservists, cadet force adult volunteers, and Armed Forces families, valued members of Waverley’s social fabric.
If you want to participate in celebrations in the borough, there are several events across Waverley which you might like to attend. These include:
Churt – On 9 and 10 May, Churt will celebrate VE Day by hosting a nostalgic ‘Street Party’ themed event, featuring tributes to Dame Vera Lynn, Flanagan & Allen, and the Andrews Sisters at Churt Village Hall. Tickets £20/£15 available from Miscellanea and Ticketsource/CADS and include a three-course supper. All proceeds to the Royal British Legion.
Cranleigh—On 8 May, the Parish Council is holding a special, free, evening event from 7.30 to 9.35 pm. Dance to 40s-style music, listen to the Horsham Band, and enjoy a Cranleigh Dance and Theatre Arts performance and a Cadets Parade with bagpipes. There will also be a beacon lighting at 9.30 pm and more.
Ewhurst – On 10 May, a concert will commemorate VE Day on Ewhurst Recreation Ground. There will be a short service at the war memorial on the recreation ground preceding the free concert from 7.30 pm. There will also be a bar and BBQ.
Farnham – On 8 May, a Beacon Lighting event will occur from 8 pm – 9.45 pm in Gostrey Meadow with live music, a VE Day Tribute, and refreshments. The event will feature: Alder Valley Brass Band, Winston Churchill’s Victory broadcast, Victoria Cluskey performing popular songs from the 1940s, VE Day Tribute to be read by Deputy Lieutenant Bill Biddell and Beacon Lighting with the High Sheriff, Peter Cluff. Light refreshments will be available, and a licensed bar will serve locally brewed beer.
Godalming – Besides funding a series of engaging workshops and drama performances in local schools under the theme “Homing in on the Home Front”, Godalming Town Council will host an exceptional remembrance service at the War Memorial at 9 am on 8 May. The service will include: a reading of the VE Day Proclamation by the Mayor of Godalming; a short commemorative service hosted by Godalming Minster; lowering of the Union Flag; laying of wreaths; and the playing of the Last Post. The bells at Godalming Minster Church of St Peter & St Paul will ring out between 1830 and 1930.
Haslemere – An exciting free event on 10 May at Lion Green, filled with live music, delicious food stalls, military vehicles, themed stalls and fascinating history. Step back in time with historians sharing incredible stories and insights. Indulge in a variety of tasty treats from a local food stall. Dance and sing along to live performances that will transport you to the past. From 3 pm-9.30 pm.
Witley – Residents of Witley & Milford Parish are invited to attend their Annual Parish Meeting at 8 pm on 8 May at Burton Pavilion, Milford, to be followed by the lighting of a Beacon outside the pavilion, on Milford Heath at 9.30 pm, to commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE Day. This will be accompanied by songs led by the All Saints Church choir.