By KLTV Newsdesk –

Civic receptions, parades, and beacon lighting are planned across the district

Communities across Kirklees are preparing to celebrate the 80th anniversary of VE Day, and Kirklees Council is encouraging residents to get involved and share their plans.

The historic anniversary will be officially observed on Thursday, 8 May. Celebrations are planned from the May Day Bank Holiday Monday on 5 May through to the weekend, as communities come together to remember and honour a pivotal moment in history.

Civic Receptions to Honour Veterans

The Mayor of Kirklees, Councillor Nosheen Dad, will host Civic Receptions for invited representatives of local veterans’ organisations at Huddersfield and Dewsbury Town Halls during the day.

Speaking ahead of the anniversary, Mayor Dad said: “This is a significant milestone in our country’s history, and I encourage everyone to join one of the many VE Day 80th anniversary events.

“It is an important time to remember the soldiers who bravely took to the battlefields and the families who endured the hardships of war to ensure we have the freedoms we have today.

“It is fantastic to see there will be community events taking place throughout the week including a celebration at Oakwell Hall, a beacon lighting in Holmfirth, a Thanksgiving Service at Dewsbury Minster and parades in Cleckheaton and Marsden.

“I encourage our communities to celebrate together just like they did 80 years ago and pay tribute to those who gave so much.”

What is VE Day?

VE Day, or Victory in Europe Day, marks the surrender of Nazi Germany to the Allied Forces and the end of hostilities in Europe during the Second World War.

It is a day to remember all those who lost their lives fighting for the freedoms we enjoy today, and to express gratitude to all who contributed to the nation’s survival during the war.

Kirklees Celebrations and How to Get Involved

Kirklees Council is inviting residents to share their own events and activities by submitting them to the VE Day 80 web page, where people can also find information and historical memoirs.

To mark the occasion, a special VE80 flag will be raised at 9 am at all four Kirklees Town Halls.

Later in the evening, Batley, Dewsbury and Huddersfield Town Halls, along with Victoria Tower at Castle Hill, will be illuminated in red, white, and blue at 9.30 pm as a tribute to the historic day.

We are proud to support our communities in celebrating this significant anniversary and remembering the bravery and sacrifice of all those who lived through these momentous times.