80th Anniversary of VE Day – commemorations across Blackburn with Darwen

Thursday 8 May 2025 marks the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day – the historic date in 1945 when World War II ended in Europe.

Across the UK, commemorative events and celebrations are being held to honour this significant milestone.

Blackburn with Darwen is proud to support a series of special tributes and community activities throughout the week.

Mayor represents Blackburn with Darwen in France

This year, the borough will be represented on the international stage, as Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen, Councillor Brian Taylor, travels to Péronne, northern France, at the invitation of the town’s civic leaders.

There, Cllr Taylor will take part in VE Day commemorations and lay a commemorative plaque at the Pont du Blackburn – a bridge named to symbolise the borough’s support in the aftermath of the First World War. The plaque marks 100 years of friendship between Blackburn and Péronne, reinforcing the lasting bonds of peace, solidarity and remembrance. This trip has been kindly funded by Peronne, inviting the Mayor to speak at two events.

VE80 Fest at Witton Park – Monday 5 May

Kicking off the week of events here is VE80 Fest – a free, family-friendly celebration hosted in partnership with the Royal British Legion at Witton Park on Bank Holiday Monday, 5 May from 12 noon.

Activities include:

• A vintage vehicle display
• A funfair and inflatables
• Food stalls with a variety of offerings
• Live music from tribute acts, samba bands, 1940s-style singers, and The Salvation Army brass band

It promises to be a vibrant day for all ages, celebrating the spirit of community and remembrance.

VE Day Commemoration Ceremonies – Thursday 8 May

Two formal remembrance services will take place at Blackburn and Darwen Town Halls, both starting at 11:00 AM.

• Darwen Town Hall: Opened by Deputy Mayor, Cllr Jackie Slater, with ceremonial flag raising, a two-minute silence, and a prayer from Rev Allison Mitchell of St Peter’s Church.
• Blackburn Town Hall: Welcoming remarks by Cllr Jim Shorrock, with a poem read by Brayden Hartley, followed by a two-minute silence and a prayer led by the Dean of Blackburn Cathedral.

Members of the Royal British Legion, Sea Cadets, Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment, and local schools will be in attendance at both services.

Handcrafted Tribute – VE Day crochet postbox topper

One of the most touching tributes this year comes in the form of a hand-crocheted post box topper, created by young resident Aaminah Karolia. Featuring detailed figures of the Army, Navy and Air Force, a miniature cenotaph, and over 20 poppies, the topper will be unveiled on Wednesday 7 May on King William Street, Blackburn.

The unveiling will be attended by Cllr John Slater, the borough’s Armed Forces Champion.

You can see more of Aaminah’s creations by following her on Instagram: @aaminknots.

Special VE Day events and activities

VE Day Flags

VE Day 80 flags will be proudly displayed outside Blackburn Town Hall throughout the commemorative period.

Giant Observation Wheel – Free for Armed Forces

From Saturday 3 May to Sunday 8 June, a spectacular 50-metre observation wheel will be installed in Cathedral Square, Blackburn, offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding area.

In honour of VE Day, all serving Armed Forces personnel and veterans can ride the wheel free of charge – simply present your ID at the ticket booth.

More details: https://theshuttle.org.uk/take-a-spin-on-blackburns-50-metre-giant-observation-wheel

VE Day at Blackburn Library

• Saturday 10 May: Family-friendly stories and activities from 10:30am–12pm and 1:30–3pm
• Thursday 8 May: VE-themed Coffee and Chat session for local residents

Evensong Service at Blackburn Cathedral

A special Evensong on Thursday 8 May will bring the community together for a moving service of reflection, music, and prayer, featuring the Cathedral Choir.

VE Day Parade – Sunday 11 May

The week concludes with a formal VE Day Parade, led by the Ministry of Defence, from Penny Street Car Park to Blackburn Cathedral. Step-off at 3:20 PM.

The Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, Councillor Phil Riley, said:

VE Day is a chance for us to celebrate victory in Europe and show our appreciation for those who served in the Armed Forces. It marks a pivotal moment in our shared history.

Here in Blackburn with Darwen, we’re proud to commemorate this day with local events that bring our community together, from remembrance services to the VE80 Fest and gatherings with our veterans.