Stars join pupils for VE Day anniversary countdown

An east London primary school has welcomed Olympic gold medallist Dame Kelly Holmes and actor Ross Kemp for a special event starting a countdown to the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day.

The stars visited the Hermitage School in Wapping to share food with the pupils and talk to them about how communities contributed to the war victory.

People are being encouraged to host celebrations to mark the anniversary on 8 May.

On this date in 1945, the Allies accepted Germany's surrender in World War Two, ending almost six years of war in Europe.

Among events planned in the run-up to the anniversary is a VE Day Schools Challenge, which aims to teach children about the significance of VE Day.

Launching the countdown at Hermitage School, former EastEnders star Kemp said 8 May 1945 marked "a major moment in our history - when Britain helped defeat the forces of fascism and protect our democracy."

"Taking part is an opportunity for us all to honour those who sacrificed so much, to reconnect with our neighbours and communities, and to remember the values that underpinned the victory.

"They matter as much today as they did then.

"This might be our last chance to thank the surviving veterans - so we should celebrate them in style," he added.

Dame Kelly said: "Moments like this matter, they bring us together as a country and remind us of the freedoms we sometimes take for granted.

"They also give us an opportunity to thank everyone who contributed to the victory from the UK and across the Commonwealth."

Community celebrations will be led by the Together Coalition, a group of businesses and individuals, as part of the UK government's national programme to commemorate the 80th anniversaries of both VE Day in May and Victory over Japan (VJ) Day on 15 August.

Events will include the Great British Food Festival on 5 May, when street parties, picnics and barbecues will take place across the country on the Bank Holiday Monday, reflecting the celebrations that broke out across the nation 80 years ago.

Many London councils have begun inviting those wishing to hold street parties to apply for permission.

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