East Sussex residents encouraged to continue VE Day celebrations within households

The events, which were due to be held on Friday (May 8) to re-enact the scenes from the end of the Second World War, were all called off due to the social distancing measures in place.

However, Battle Town Council said the celebrations - marking 75 years since VE Day 1945 - should continue 'in all sorts of creative ways within households and on doorsteps'.

A spokesman for the council said: "The unexpected arrival of Covid-19 has certainly turned our lives upside down, with every corner of society finding new and incredible ways to adapt to this rather restricted way of living.

"Although the impact of this pandemic on daily life cannot really be likened to that of World War 2 and the struggle felt at that time, it is inspiring to see, once again, so many people in the country working hard to support each other through unprecedented times in some truly astonishing ways.

"Each year, the end of World War 2 is marked on 8th May by VE Day (Victory in Europe Day). This year, re-enactments of the fantastic street parties that were thrown by neighbourhoods up and down the country on VE Day 1945 were planned throughout the country. Unfortunately, VE Day celebrations have had to be cancelled due to social distancing measures in place. HM The Queen will be sending a message to the nation to mark the 75th anniversary of VE Day, and it is hoped that the celebrations will continue in all sorts of creative ways within households and on doorsteps."

Battle Town COuncil had been planning to hold a street party along High Street to mark the momentous event. However, it hopes the party will be rearranged for VJ Day (Victory in Japan Day) in August as a double celebration and commemoration.

The council added: "However, if the Covid-19 measures are still in place at this time, the council could hold a street party to celebrate the end of the pandemic instead. Such a celebration

would not only commemorate the 75th anniversaries of VE Day and VJ Day, but also acknowledge those who did so much for the country in WW2 and residents who are supporting our community throughout the 2020 pandemic as well.

"Stay safe and we hope that all of Battle will come together once again very soon."