People living in Midsomer Norton and towns and villages in the area are being urged not to miss out on the historic opportunity to take part in VE Day Celebrations.

Thursday, May 8, marks the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, the day that in 1945 the guns fell silent, and peace was declared in Europe.

Councillors from the new Independents for B&NES (Bath & North East Somerset movement) say this could well be the last major opportunity the nation has to say ‘thank you’ to all those World War II veterans that are still with us.

Cllr Chris Warren (Independent, Saltford) said: “Eighty 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 May 8 should be VE (Victory in Europe) Day.

“Thank you to all those brave men who gave up so much so we could enjoy the freedoms we have today.”

Commemorative events will be held across Bath & North East Somerset, with major national commemorations taking place in London. These include:

· The Cenotaph dressed in Union flags, a military procession and a flypast in London on Bank Holiday Monday ( May 5)

· A military procession from Whitehall to Buckingham Palace, followed by a flypast of military aircraft including the Red Arrows ( May 5)

· Historic landmarks across the UK illuminated (evening of May 6)

· A concert given by the Parliament Choir inside Westminster Hall ( May 7)

· A concert at Horseguards Parade, for 10,000 members of the public ( May 8)

Cllr Gavin Heathcote (Independent, Peasedown) said: “It’s fantastic to see that so many local organisations across the district are organising events next week. The sheer bravery of those who fought during World War II have given us the democratic rights and privileges we enjoy today, and we should never take those for granted.

“Whether you’re living in the city of Bath, Keynsham, Midsomer Norton, or any of the surrounding villages like Saltford or Peasedown St John, please make an effort to do something next week. This 80th anniversary of VE Day is truly historic.”

Not sure what’s happening in your community? Readers can either contact their local town or parish council to find out more or visit the national VE Day website for a full list of events: www.ve-vjday80.gov.uk

Cllr Karen Walker (Independent, Peasedown) is Leader of the Independents for B&NES Group on the council and is currently chairwoman of B&NES Council

She said: “I’m looking forward to visiting many of the events taking place across Bath & North East Somerset between May 5-11. A huge thank you to all of the event organisers who have been working hard to make sure each and everyone of our towns and villages has the opportunity to celebrate, in style, the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day.”