A beacon is to be lit at Bosworth Battlefield on Thursday 8 May to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day.
The historic anniversary, which commemorates the end of the Second World War in Europe, will be marked with celebrations across the country from Thursday 8 to Sunday 11 May.
Leicestershire County Council and the Leicestershire Lieutenancy are hosting or involved in a number of events during the week.
The beacon lighting is being hosted by Leicestershire County Council in conjunction with the Sheepy Beacon Society. It will take place at 9.30pm and will be one of a series of similar events taking place across the length and breadth of the UK.
The focus for the Lieutenancy’s commemoration of the 80th anniversary, in conjunction with Leicester Cathedral, will be an evensong service on Thursday 8 May at 5.30pm, attended by the Lord-Lieutenant of Leicestershire, the Lord Mayor of Leicester, Chairman of the County Council, other civic dignitaries, armed forces and veterans. This service is open to the public and all are welcome to attend.
Other events taking place to mark the anniversary include a celebration event at the 1620s House and Garden in Donington-le-Heath on Saturday 10 May, and a week-long series of children’s activities at all 16 council-managed libraries, as well as the five museums.
The 80th anniversary of VE Day offers us a poignant opportunity to reflect on the courage, resilience and sacrifice of those who gave so much during the Second World War. I am honoured to be part of this county-wide commemoration, which brings together communities in remembrance and gratitude.
The evensong service at Leicester Cathedral will provide a moment of solemn reflection, while the lighting of the beacon at Bosworth Battlefield will stand as a powerful symbol of peace, unity and hope for the future—values that remain as vital today as they were eight decades ago.
Person:Mike Kapur OBE CStJ, Lord-Lieutenant of Leicestershire
More information on VE Day 80 events is available from the Leicestershire Lieutenancy website.