Flag raising ceremony to mark VE Day anniversary

A special flag raising ceremony will take place at Oakham Castle on Thursday 8 May to mark VE Day and 80 years since the end of the Second World War in Europe.

VE Day (Victory in Europe) falls on 8 May each year, with events taking place around the United Kingdom to commemorate the occasion and remember all those who lost their lives during the conflict.

A ceremonial VE Day 80th anniversary flag will be raised in the grounds of Oakham Castle at 10.00am by representatives from 1st Military Working Dog Regiment, stationed at St George’s Barracks, North Luffenham.

The ceremony is open to members of the public and will be attended by His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Rutland Dr Sarah Furness. Rutland County Council will be represented by Vice-Chairman Cllr Samantha Harvey and Armed Forces Champion Cllr David Wilby. A proclamation will be read by Mayor of Oakham Cllr Paul Ainsley.

“80 years after the end of the Second World War, the number of people who lived through this defining period in our history is growing ever smaller. This makes it even more important that we take time to stop and remember the incredible acts of valour that were carried out to protect our country and way of life. Rutland’s connection with the Armed Forces is very special and an immense source of pride to us all.”

Armed Forces Champion, Cllr David Wilby

As part of wider commemorations to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day, Oakham Castle will be lit up in red, white and blue on the evening of Thursday 8 May. A Beacon Lighting ceremony will also be held in Cutts Close Park at 9.30pm, organised by Oakham Town Council.

A special parade, church service and ‘party in the park’ are planned in Oakham on Sunday June 29, as part of a weekend of celebrations to honour the 80th anniversary of VE Day, VJ Day (Victory over Japan) and this year’s annual Armed Forces Day.