VE Day 75th anniversary

Public commemorations to be held online

The Highland Council is supporting the national public commemorations of the 75th anniversary of VE Day.

Councillor Roddy Balfour, Highland Council's Armed Forces and Veterans' Champion said:

“VE Day marks the end of World War 2 in Europe which was a day of great rejoicing. It was the day freedom triumphed over the forces of an evil dictatorship which had cost the lives of millions of people.

“We would normally mark VE Day with an ecumenical service held in Inverness but this is not possible due to the COVID-19 lockdown.

“We welcome the Scottish Government’s announcement today that there will be an online service of remembrance and a two-minute silence which will lead Scotland’s public commemorations of the 75th anniversary of VE Day on 8 May.”

The ongoing coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic has meant that plans for the landmark anniversary – which were to include a parade, public concert and reception – will now take place online, with a video message of thanks from the First Minister and a concert in addition to the service and silence.

Led by Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland in partnership with the Scottish Government, the commemorations will include children and families currently learning at home.

• The Legion Scotland Service of Remembrance will be broadcast on Legion Scotland and Poppy Scotland’s social media channels from 10.40 a.m. until 11.15 a.m. The online concert will then begin at 11.45 a.m. until 1 p.m.
• The First Minister’s message will be posted on Twitter @scotgov
• Poppyscotland’s online resources can be found at: www.poppyscotland.org.uk/VEDayParty
• In addition to virtual events, Poppyscotland have also produced a range of online educational resources for activities for families can use to learn about VE Day and participate in marking the 75th anniversary at home.