Street parties recreated for WW2 events programme

Events at the National Memorial Arboretum set out to recreate the spirit of street parties as they were in May 1945.

It is part of a programme of events and activities at the Staffordshire place of remembrance called The Year Was 1945 - to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of World War Two.

The programme will focus on Victory in Europe Day (VE) on 8 May and Victory over Japan Day (VJ) on 15 August.

"At the Arboretum this year, 'The Year Was 1945…' will take visitors on a journey back to that seismic period, sharing real stories from those who lived through these historic moments," said Mark Ellis of the arboretum.

"Our programme of events will offer opportunities to reflect, learn, and commemorate these significant anniversaries."

The street party celebrations will include live music, period entertainment and themed activities, and will be held from 3 to 5 May.

Across the year there will also be themed guided walks and talks which will tell stories of people involved in WW2.

Four exhibitions will be inside the site's remembrance centre, including personal letters, photographs and stories from veterans and civilians.

Finally, there will be Acts of Remembrance to honour the service of those who fought in the war.

"Life in Britain in 1945 was a time of both celebration and challenge," said Mr Ellis.

"The nation rejoiced as VE Day signified the end of the war in Europe, subsequently followed by the relief of VJ Day in August, bringing six years of global conflict to a close. Yet, for many, the hardship was far from over.

Communities continued to grapple with rationing, the return of loved ones from military service, and the enormous task of rebuilding their lives and cities."

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