Find out what you can do for VE day during lockdown

And this year marks its 75th anniversary since it was announced that Nazi Germany had unconditionally surrendered, signalling the end of the Second World War in Europe.

Many streets, councils, and organisations had big plans to celebrate the day, but because of the current coronavirus pandemic, which has resulted in a worldwide lockdown and strict social distancing rules, these have had to be cancelled or postponed.

The UK is being asked to come together at 9pm to sing Dame Vera’s classic song ‘We’ll Meet Again’ outside their homes be that in their gardens or stood in the street.

A number of different councils across the county are asking members of the public to have their own stay at home party. Flyers have been shared asking people to decorate their house in red, white and blue flags, enjoy a picnic in their own garden with good food and games and commemorate the anniversary with their family.

People who were due to perform at events are planning to take it to their local streets including singers and stilt walkers.

Stanley Northeast, who was born in Arundel and lived in Wick for many years, was looking forward to seeing his fellow veterans – some for the last time – for the 75th anniversary celebrations of the end of the Second World War in Europe. But with the coronavirus lockdown events have been postponed. So summoning up that can-do wartime spirit, Stanley wants the nation to ‘clap for victory’ at 7.45pm on that date to mark the occasion, inspired by the weekly clap for NHS staff taking place each Thursday.

On the VE Day event website it wants people to undertake the ‘Nation’s Toast to the heroes of WW2’ at 3pm on May 8, from the safety of their own home by standing up and raise a glass of refreshment of their choice and undertake the following ‘toast’: “To those who gave so much, we thank you,” using this unique opportunity to pay tribute to the many millions at home and abroad that gave so much to ensure we all enjoy and share the freedom we have today.

At 7.05pm town criers from around the UK are being asked to do the reading ‘Cry for Peace Around the World’ from home and live on Facebook.

The May Bank Holiday normally takes place on the first Monday of May but it has been moved to Friday, May 8, to mark the occasion.

In 1945 the community celebrated as 3.8million British men and 400,000 British women could begin to return to their homes and families, some for the first time in many years.

With many people planning alternative street parties in the homes and gardens, some have looked at other ways to commemorate the 75th anniversary.

Sidlesham parish councillor Colin Field (below) had a more lasting momento in mind.

He has put together a booklet entitled ‘Sidlesham on the Homefront 1939-1945’.

Grants from Chichester District Council and Sidlesham Parish Council have enabled the printing of a copy for every household in the parish.

Colin said: “I have put together photographs with memories and anecdotes from the few remaining residents here who of course, were still children during the war years.

“I hope our parishioners will find the booklet of some interest and a diversion from the restrictions we are all necessarily experiencing at this time.’’

Westbourne Club Community Hall was plannning on holding a tea party it the over 75s in the village but unfortunately this has been put on hold.

Instead they are planning to decorate the front of the building and invite all households in the village to turn the front of their house and garden red white and blue and join them in raising a cheer at 3pm for all those who gave their lives in war time for their country

Chichester City Council will be asking everybody to display a flag either the Union Jack or from the Allies in their windows from Friday, May 8, to Sunday, May 10. They are asking people to take a picture and post it on social media.

Across the country buglers, trumpeters and cornet players are being asked to consider playing the Last Post from the safety of their front or back garden, outside their front door or from their balcony or window at 2.55pm.

Are you holding an event? Send us pictures and you may feature in the paper and online.

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