Street and Glastonbury mark 80 years since VE Day with remembrance, music and community spirit
Street and Glastonbury are marking the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day with events honouring those who gave their lives during the Second World War.
In Street, residents gathered on Wednesday morning to pay their respects. The VE Day flag was raised by local Youth Cadet Eva, and Chair of Street Parish Council Bryan Knickerbocker delivered a heartfelt proclamation. The council described the event as a moment of "solemn remembrance and reflection" and thanked all those who attended.
Street's commemorations will continue this evening, with residents invited to gather at the Library Gardens at 9.30pm for the lighting of the Lamp Light of Peace and the official VE Day 80 Tribute.
Glastonbury's commemorations began earlier today with multi-faith prayers at Market Cross at 8.30am, followed by a Town Crier proclamation and the lowering of the flag at 9am. At midday, a lone piper played a traditional piece to honour those who served and sacrificed.
Later this evening, a torchlit procession will leave from the Fairfield at 8.30pm, followed by a community VE Day service at 8.55pm to mark the exact moment peace was declared in Europe 80 years ago.
On Friday 9 May, Glastonbury's Red Brick Building will host an evening of 1940s nostalgia with a live performance by the Shepton Mallet Big Band. The event promises a night of swing music and dancing, with vintage attire encouraged. Tickets are £15.
Also running as part of the town's VE Day commemorations is a new exhibition at the Somerset Rural Life Museum. Strength and Resilience: Somerset Women in the Second World War tells the stories of four remarkable women from the county, including wartime spy Odette Hallowes and photographer Lee Miller. The exhibition runs until 8 June and is included with museum entry.
Both towns are marking the anniversary not only with celebration, but with reflection — remembering the sacrifices made in the name of peace and freedom.
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