Play Brightcove videoITV News’ Mahatir Pasha visited a community event attended by all generations celebrating the 80th VE Day.
Celebrations to mark 80 years since the end of World War II are set to take place this week ahead of VE Day on Thursday.
In an open letter, Sir Keir Starmer praised veterans for their “selfless dedication” and the sacrifice made by the armed forces is a “debt that can never fully be repaid”.
The nation will show how thankful it is during events to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War in Europe, the Prime Minister wrote.
As the nation falls silent on Thursday, he said his thoughts will turn both to those who served in the Second World War and those who “carry the torch of their legacy” today.
“Alongside our history and our values, service is the other great force that binds a nation together.
“So this week, I want you to know: the whole nation is inspired by the selfless dedication of your example.”
The Royal family will stand on the balcony of Buckingham Palace on Monday to commemorate VE Day. Credit: PA
Meanwhile the Royal family is hoping “nothing will detract or distract” from the VE Day 80th anniversary celebrations after the Duke of Sussex’s bombshell interview.
The King and Queen are said to be looking forward to this week’s events to remember the “selfless devotion, duty and service” of the wartime generation.
Large crowds gathered outside Buckingham Palace on VE Day in 1945 to catch a glimpse of King George VI, Queen Elizabeth, and Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret.
The young Princess Elizabeth sneaked out into the streets to join the celebrating crowds and later spoke of being swept up in a “tide of happiness and relief”.
Princess Elizabeth at the wheel of an army vehicle when she served in WWII. Credit: PA
Following Queen Elizabeth II’s death in 2022, this year will be the first landmark VE Day commemoration without any of the royals who stood on the balcony that day.
Thousands of people across the country will be attending street parties and picnics to celebrate Victory in Europe Day as official celebrations kick off this week.
Bank holiday Monday
Charles and Camilla will lead the nation at events which begin on Monday with a military procession through central London.
Second World War veterans and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer will join senior royals on a platform on the Queen Victoria Memorial in front of Buckingham Palace to watch the procession.
Members of the royal family are also expected to appear on the Buckingham Palace balcony to watch the RAF flypast before the King and Queen host a tea party for veterans and members of the Second World War generation.
30,000 ceramic poppies are part of an installation at the Tower of London. Credit: PA
Tuesday May 6
An installation of 30,000 ceramic poppies will go on display at the Tower of London and key buildings will be lit up.
Wednesday May 7
On the eve of VE Day, an anniversary concert will be held in Westminster Hall.
Thursday, May 8
The King and Queen, joined by other members of the royal family, will attend a thanksgiving service with veterans at Westminster Abbey on May 8 to mark the day of the anniversary. Beacons will also be lit across the UK.
In the evening, the royal couple will be at Horse Guards Parade for a celebratory concert where Second World War veterans are expected to be among more than 12,500 guests.
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