The Mayor of Colchester, Cllr Lesley Scott-Boutell, will lead a series of events on Thursday, 8 May 2025, to commemorate the 80th Anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day. The programme will honour the sacrifices made during the Second World War and provide an opportunity for the community to reflect on the courage of those who fought and died for freedom.
The day’s commemorations will begin at 10am on the steps of Colchester Town Hall with the raising of the VE Day 80 and Pegasus flags followed by the reading of a special proclamation by Town Crier Rennie Chivers and an address by the Mayor.
At 12.30pm, a commemoration service will take place at the Colchester War Memorial, held in conjunction with Colchester Garrison. This service will provide an opportunity for the community to gather and pay tribute to the men and women who contributed to the Allied victory in Europe.
Later in the evening, a private civic reception will be held at the Town Hall. During the reception, the Mayor’s Awards Ceremony will recognise individuals and organisations who have made a significant contribution to Colchester or achieved something remarkable for the city. Following the reception, the Mayor, accompanied by the Town Watch, will lead a procession to Castle Park for the lighting of a beacon at 9.30pm – a symbolic act to mark the occasion and echo similar events taking place across the nation.
The Mayor of Colchester, Cllr Lesley Scott-Boutell, said: “VE Day marked the end of a dark and challenging period in history, and it is right that we pause to reflect on the sacrifices made by so many to secure peace and freedom.
“Colchester’s programme of events will give us all an opportunity to remember those who served, while also recognising the contributions of individuals who continue to make a difference in our community today. I encourage everyone to take part in these commemorations and help ensure that the legacy of those who fought and died for our freedom is never forgotten.”
Commander Colchester Garrison, Lieutenant Colonel Ed Rankin, said: “There is a unity between Colchester's military and civilian communities, and it is so important we come together on VE Day to remember all those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. As soldiers, it is always so heartening to see the level of support from the people of Colchester as we mark this historic occasion 80 years ago. We are very thankful to the city of Colchester for its continual support to our Service Personnel, our families and our amazing veterans and look forward to being part of the special events taking place in Colchester and across the nation as we commemorate VE Day.”
Victory in Europe was declared on 8 May 1945, bringing to an end six years of war in Europe. The 80th anniversary provides an opportunity for the people of Colchester to reflect on the sacrifices made and to pay tribute to all those who contributed to the defeat of Nazi Germany.
Page last reviewed: 30 April 2025