VE Day 80

On 8 May 2025 we joined the nation to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day.  

The proclamation as shouted by our Town Crier, Emma Kimber, sums it up better than we could:

Oyez, Oyez, Oyez

Eighty years ago today the United Kingdom and its allies from around the globe celebrated VE Day – the end of the war in Europe.

Today as we come together to commemorate what came to be known as VE Day our thoughts turn to thanksgiving and remembrance of those millions that gave so much to achieve the freedom we all enjoy today.

We remember those we lost, those who were wounded or scarred, those whose lives were forever changed by war.  Nobody was immune from the impact of that terrible conflict.

Let us pause to remember their sacrifice.

We reflect too upon the words of our late and glorious Queen Elizabeth – “Never Give UP, Never Despair”.

And so we offer thanksgiving for the selflessness of those who gave up so much in order that future generations should enjoy the blessings of freedom, democracy and peace.

God Save the King

Councillors thanks go to a long list: to the folk from Marlborough Royal British Legion, the Rugby Club and T H White and Town Council staff for planning, setting up and running the event; to the folk from Swindon Classic Car Club, Marlborough Model Flying Club, Daniel Claridge and others for bringing along their precious vintage vehicles and planes; to all the performers - Ramsbury Brass Band, Phoenix Brass, SING, Preshute Primary School and the Piper and Bugler; to Marlborough College and Marlborough Army Cadets, to Charles Bartholomew DL and the General and to ALL OF YOU for sharing these celebrations with us.

For a look back at VE Day 75 - during lockdown - please click here.

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