Residents Invited to Attend VE Day 80th Anniversary Service

The Town Council and Royal British Legion Hailsham Branch invite residents of Hailsham and surrounding communities to attend a service to commemorate the 80th Anniversary of VE (Victory in Europe) Day.

Taking place at the Hailsham War Memorial on Thursday 8th May, the service is being held to mark the end of Second World War hostilities in Europe on 8th May 1945, and to bring the community together in remembrance, reflection and celebration.

Members of the public are encouraged to gather at the War Memorial at 10.30am for a 10.45am start. The service will be followed by a short wreath-laying ceremony.

Attendees will include local councillors, Town Council staff, veterans and their families, and representatives from the Royal British Legion.

“In the approach to its 80th anniversary, we must take a moment to remember that VE Day was not only one of celebration marking the end of hostilities in Europe during World War Two, but it was also a moment of great sadness and reflection, as many people had lost their lives in the conflict with a great deal of individuals continuing to fight in other conflicts,” said Town Mayor Cllr Paul Holbrook. “I know I speak for others when I say that the commemorative service being organised by the Royal British Legion is keenly anticipated by us all. I would encourage everyone to take the time and attend the service on 8th May.”

Deputy Town Mayor, Cllr Anne Marie Ricketts commented: “This service is an opportunity to recognise the sacrifices made by previous generations and to reflect by expressing gratitude for the freedoms we are privy to today. I hope as many people as possible attend the service and we all come together as a community to ensure that the memory of those who fought for our country during World War Two remains active and is never forgotten – and the 80th Anniversary of VE Day is suitably commemorated.”

The Town Council is organising a ‘grand celebration’ in the town centre from 9am to 2.30pm on Saturday 10th May, to mark the 80th Anniversary of VE Day.

The event will feature live entertainment, courtesy of music acts Miss Peggy Rose and The Jackettes. Local dance school Sjaan Dance Academy will also be taking part, and an area will be created with seating in Vicarage Field for people to dance to 1940s-style music. Pupils from Grovelands Community Primary School’s choir club will also be providing entertainment.

The event incorporates a market in Vicarage Field and the Royal British Legion Hailsham & District Branch and RAF cadets will have their own stalls. Hailsham FM will be broadcasting live throughout the day.

There will also be a classic vehicle display in the High Street and an exhibition of photos and wartime memorabilia in Vicarage Field, courtesy of the Hailsham Historical Society. Hailsham Parish Church will be open to welcome visitors into the church building between 11am and 1pm on the day.

“VE Day is a huge and momentous occasion in our country’s history, and Hailsham is proud to play its part in marking its 80th anniversary,” added Cllr Holbrook. “As the occasion is fast approaching, Hailsham Town Council would like to share with residents what we have planned so far for our special event.”

“The VE Day 80th Anniversary is a significant milestone in our history, and it is an honour to be entrusted with creating such an important event that commemorates our history and community spirit. We look forward to working with project partners to organise a memorable celebration for all on 10th May.”

Event organisers are looking for guest speakers to give a brief talk on Hailsham FM (either live at the event or pre-recorded) about their shared VE Day experiences. For further details, please email kaylee.butcher@hailsham-tc.gov.uk.

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