City to light up in patriotic colours for VE Day

Peterborough City Council said the city will stand "proud" as it marks VE Day on Thursday

A city will be lit up in red, white and blue to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day.

Victory in Europe Day is marked on 8 May, which signifies the end of World War Two in Europe.

Peterborough Cathedral and Queensgate shopping centre in Peterborough will be among buildings joining in the celebrations with themed buntings, with some decorations already on display along Bridge Street in the city centre.

Peterborough City Council said the city would stand "proud", adding that a civic ceremony would be held at the Town Hall with a proclamation from the town crier and the lighting of a beacon.

'Bring community together'

Singers will be performing throughout the day to mark the special anniversary.

Meanwhile, a vintage tea party is being hosted at City College Peterborough, with VE Day-themed activities across subjects including maths, history, and creative sessions for students to join in.

Peterborough City Council's head of safer communities Clair George said: "Our city will stand proud marking the anniversary of VE Day.

"The raising of the flag, and the lighting of the beacon outside our town hall, are always poignant and thoughtful moments of reflection on those who gave their lives, and we would welcome those who want to attend and pay their respects."

City College Peterborough Principal Tasha Dalton said: "We are proud to be part of the VE Day celebrations, we will bring our community together with pride, and reflection."