Preparations are underway at Thetford Town Council as the town gets ready to celebrate the 80th Anniversary of VE Day with a shared nationwide celebration and a community party on Melford Common.
On May 8th, in honour of this historic day, a VE80 flag will be raised at Thetford Market Place at 9am. Later, at 9.30pm, Thetford will join the rest of the nation in a Shared Moment of Celebration, lighting the Beacon and Lamp Lights of Peace.
On Saturday May 10th, Thetford will host the Party on the Common at Melford Common, promising a fun-filled 1940s-themed day. The event will feature live bands, dancing, face painting, a bar, and a variety of food stalls, including Pie and Mash and Loaded Chips.
Visitors can also enjoy appearances from Dad’s Army and funfair rides from L Gray and Sons, making it a fantastic day out for the whole family.
Thetford Town Council will also be organising events later this year to commemorate VJ Day, with more details to come. For updates, visit the Council’s website.
Cllr Chris Harvey, Mayor of Thetford, said: “It’s been a few years since the community has come together on Melford Common to celebrate an event, and we are excited to host this day to commemorate such an important time in history.”
“The Council’s Events Team has previously hosted successful town events such as the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, D-Day, and Screen on the Green, and they are excited to bring another free family event to the people of Thetford.”
The Council is also seeking individuals to share their VE Day stories, whether personal accounts or family histories from the war effort, as part of the 80 Stories campaign. To get involved, contact katebradley@thetfordtowncouncil.gov.uk
For more information about the VE80 Celebrations, visit: www.thetfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/VE80
