TRURO will be hosting a series of events for the 80th Anniversary of VE Day on Thursday, May 8.
The historic occasion will commemorate and celebrate the end of the World War ll in Europe, 80 years ago, with thousands expected to visit Truro to remember and pay tribute to the brave men and women who took part in the war.
Throughout the day, there will be proclamations from the town crier, flags flown, wreaths laid, bells ringing, and the lighting of Truro's Beacon. A Choral Evensong will also be taking place at Truro Cathedral.
Town crier of Truro, Lionel Knight, said: “To be able to play even a small part in paying tribute is humbling and a great honour. I believe in continuing the tradition of commemorating, paying our respects and remembering those who fought for us and lost their lives for us.”
A detailed look at what will be happening throughout the day:
- 8am – Proclamation will be read out on the steps at High Cross by the Town Crier, supported with a guard of honour by the Truro Branch of the Royal British Legion (RBL).
- 9am – Flags will be flown, along with the 2nd Proclamation and guard of honour by Truro Branch of the RBL at the War Memorial on Boscawen Street.
- 11am – Short wreath laying service at the War Memorial (Boscawen Street).
- 5.30pm – Choral Evensong in Commemoration of VE Day will be held in the cathedral, sung by Truro Cathedral on the feast of St Michael Protector of Cornwall.
- 6.30pm – Bells will ring around Truro.
- 9.30pm – A series of events will mark the Beacon being lit on High Cross, including the lighting of the Beacon, a spoken tribute, and “I Vow to Thee, My Country” will be sung.
- 10pm – Evening concludes.