VE Day - 80th Anniversary Celebrations in Newcastle
Memory Lingers Here: Official Commemorative Service with Speeches, Fish and Chips, and Music
The inscription "Memory Lingers Here", engraved on the cenotaph at Old Eldon Square, will take on renewed significance on Thursday, 8th May, as Newcastle commemorates the 80th Anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day - the official end of World War II in Europe.
The event, organised by two North East veterans and lifelong friends, Matt Hall and Mike Brooke, will mark this significant milestone and provide an opportunity for the public and other veterans, many of whom are in their 70s, 80s, and 90s, to pay their respects and celebrate their shared history.
The commemorative ceremony will include speeches, tributes, wreath-laying , and musical performances by pipers from the Newcastle City Pipe Band. A historical tribute, by the Royal Pageant Master will be read during the service.
Following the ceremony, veterans will be invited to enjoy a traditional serving of fish and chips in Old Eldon Square from a pop-up fish and chip van. This iconic British dish was famously left unrationed by Winston Churchill in tribute to the land army and fishermen who helped sustain the nation during wartime.
The fish and chip meal idea was suggested by the Royal Pageant Master, who recommended that all VE Day celebrations across the country should include this historic meal.
Commenting on the celebrations, Matt Hall, one of the event organisers, said: "Last year’s D-Day commemorations were very important and a profound moment for veterans in the North East. This year, we were determined to remember VE Day in a similar and appropriate way, especially as many of us may not be here for the centenary in 20 years. Mike and I have been planning this event since February, and we encourage everyone to come along and join in the celebrations."
The festivities will conclude at the Strawberry Pub near St. James’ Park, where veterans can enjoy VE Day-priced drinks and camaraderie.
Rachel Fenwick, who is NE1’s Marketing and Events Manager as well as volunteering as a Flying Officer for the Royal Air Force Cadets said: “We are proud to be supporting the organisers in staging and preparing for the VE Day Celebrations in Old Eldon Square. We encourage everyone to take part and enjoy the anniversary, remembering what it signifies: a day dedicated to celebrating peace in Europe. This year’s commemoration feels especially poignant, and it is both timely and fitting to honour the sacrifices and give thanks to those who fought for peace in Europe 80 years ago.”
Newcastle City Council will also host a formal beacon lighting ceremony event at the Civic Centre at 9:30 PM to commemorate VE Day.
Image: War memorial in Old Eldon Square, © Copyright Trevor Littlewood and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence
