An appeal has been made, calling for veterans and volunteers to come forward to help mark the 75th Anniversary of the end of the Second World War in Peasedown St John.

The Peasedown St John commemorations are being led and coordinated by the village’s local Councillors, Karen Walker and Sarah Bevan.

Cllr Karen Walker (Independent, Peasedown St John), said:

“Seventy-five years may have passed by, but we should never forget the sacrifice that our country’s service personnel made for the rest of us. Their bravery and determination helped defeat the Nazis and bring peace to the UK and the rest of Europe.

“After the death of Hitler and surrender of Germany, Prime Minister Winston Churchill declared that the 8th May should be VE (Victory in Europe) Day!”

To mark 75 years since the end of the Second World War, the government has announced that the traditional May Day Bank Holiday, always held on the first Monday of the month, will be moved back by four days this year, with Friday, 8th May, ‘VE Day’ being recognised as a Bank Holiday instead.

On Friday, 8th May at 2.30 p.m. to 6 p.m., a celebratory event will be held at St John’s Parish Church Hall to thank all local veterans for their service and to raise a toast to all those heroes who are no longer with us.

Cllr Sarah Bevan (Independent, Peasedown St John), added: “We’re organising this event to thank all of those who gave up so much for the rest of us. The sheer bravery of those who fought during World War II gave us the democratic rights and privileges we enjoy today.

“We’re appealing, firstly, for any surviving veterans to come forward. We would be honoured for you to attend the event and to share your memories with us.

“We also need volunteers to help, particularly a Bugler to play the Last Post, and a Piper to play Battle’s O’er.”

The Peasedown St John event will follow the national programme for the day, which is:

2.30 p.m.: people arrive for event

2.55 p.m.: Last Post is played

3 p.m.: The playing of ‘The Battle’s O’er’

3 p.m. onwards: food and drink, followed by memories from veterans

The afternoon will include a live TV link to London and at 7 p.m. the Ringing of Church Bells at St John’s Parish Church to coincide with the collective ‘Ringing Out for Peace’ across the UK.

Bath Theatrical Costume Hire will be providing World War II clothing and outfits for those attending, if they would like to dress up for the occasion. A photographer will be on hand to capture memories from the day.

If you’re a veteran, bugler or piper and can help, please contact: Cllr Karen Walker on: 07968 401447 or email on: [email protected] or

Cllr Sarah Bevan on: 07792 379 850 or email: [email protected]