By Rebecca Hannant
Communities across Holderness are preparing to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day with a series of commemorative events, services and celebrations.
Victory in Europe Day, celebrated on May 8, marks the formal end of the Second World War in Europe in 1945. This year, towns and villages across the UK – including Hornsea, Withernsea, Patrington, Hedon, Burstwick and others – will take part in national and local tributes.
At 9am on Thursday, May 8, the Proclamation and Raising of the Flag will take place in line with events happening across the country. In Withernsea, the ceremony will be held at the Pier Towers; in Patrington, it will take place at the war memorial; and in Hornsea, a flag-raising will also be held.
Later that evening, at 9.30pm, commemorative beacons will be lit in multiple locations including Withernsea, Patrington, Hornsea and at Burton Constable Hall – joining more than 1,000 sites nationwide.
Withernsea is planning a full week of community activity. St Nicholas Church will feature a knitted poppy cascade, on display from May 5 to 11, with military uniforms provided by The Shores Centre. The Royal British Legion will hold a service at the New War Memorial, with standards, a bugler and the ringing of the church bells 80 times at 11.02am. Children from local schools have contributed artwork for a wreath, with additional pieces to be displayed around the town. Businesses have also been invited to decorate their windows in red, white and blue, with a prize for the best dressed.
Patrington will host an afternoon tea at the village hall from 2pm, and residents are being encouraged to display bunting and flags.
In Hornsea, a special VE Day service will take place in the Memorial Gardens at 11am on May 8, organised by the Hornsea & District Royal British Legion. On Sunday, May 11, the branch will also lead a VE Day parade, followed by another service in the gardens at 2pm. That same day, Hall Garth Park will host a full-day celebration from 10am to 7pm featuring live music, food stalls, charity stands, emergency service displays and children’s rides.
Hornsea Museum will also hold a 1940s-themed street party in its garden on Monday, May 5, from 11am to 3pm, with vintage music, refreshments and museum stalls. Entry is £1 for adults and free for children.
Elsewhere, Aldbrough Youth Club will host a VE Day tea dance on the evening of May 8 from 7.30pm to 9.30pm, with live music from vintage singer Cherie Lawrence. Tickets are £10 and can be booked by contacting the organisers.
Burton Constable Hall will host two events. On Monday, May 5, a daytime celebration from 10am to 4pm will include swing dancing, games, crafts, a wind band, and more – with free entry for all. On the evening of Thursday, May 8, the hall will host a VE Day party with live entertainment from 7pm. Tickets for the evening event are £25.