Last month the significant 80^th anniversary for Victory in Europe was marked across the UK. 8th May 1945 – VE (Victory in Europe) Day – It meant an end to nearly six years of a war that had cost the lives of millions; had destroyed homes, families, and cities; and had brought huge suffering and privations to the populations of entire countries.

Millions of people rejoiced in the news that Germany had surrendered, relieved that the war was finally over. In towns and cities across the world, people marked the victory with street parties, dancing and singing.

The celebrations began early at the end of April when the Denton Luncheon Club hosted a special themed lunch. Organised by Cllrs Denise Ward and Vincent Ricci there was entertainment from singer Dom Collins belting out some wartime hits.  Stalybridge & Dukinfield Recreation Bowling Club  also hosted a special VE Day event open to members and non-members on Monday May 5^th. Mossley Community Centre organised a special themed scarecrow trail with many people creating scarecrows that were placed at locations at top and bottom Mossley. Many care and nursing homes also decorated for the occasion along with parties including Oakwood Care Centre and Parkhill Nursing Home in Stalybridge. St Mary’s Church Droylsden held a commemorative 80th VE day exhibition and poppy field on Saturday 3rd May.

The church has a memorial to all those killed from the parish in WW11 and we are researching the names to learn avout their service. This information was on display.

The children from St Mary’s CofE Prmary school made poppies and these were displayed in the church yard over the week of the commemorations. A poppy will be dedicated to each of the names on the memorial.

In Ashton town centre there was a special street party organised by Andy Kleek and Monopoly Events for Market Avenue. Local actor John Henshaw popped up too as people enjoyed free food and character appearances.

Images by Howard Murphy