Ringwood plans band and beacon for community salute to VE80
RINGWOOD is planning a special evening tribute with beacon lighting as part of a nationwide salute to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day.
The town council-organised free community event on Thursday 8th May joins towns and cities across the UK and abroad for VE80, commemorating the day the Second World War in Europe came to an end eight decades ago - honouring the bravery, sacrifice, and resilience of those who lived through it.
The event will take place at the War Memorial Gardens, and the programme for the evening includes live music by the Ringwood & Burley Band from 9pm, followed at 9.30pm by the lighting of the commemorative beacon and reading of the ‘Global Tribute’ by mayor Cllr Rae Frederick.
Cllr Frederick said: “This is a moment for Ringwood to stand together - to reflect, give thanks, and honour those who gave so much. Our town is proud to play its part in this nationwide tribute.”
Beacons have long been used as a symbol of unity and remembrance for major national commemorations, including the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings in 2024, when more than a thousand were lit nationwide.
Ringwood’s beacon was specially commissioned by the council last year to be first lit for D-Day 80, and has now been installed permanently in the War Memorial Gardens.
The council is working closely with Greyfriars Community Centre and The Veterans Hub for the event.
Greyfriars will be running a minibus to help veterans attend the ceremony, and those gathering at the centre will be invited to enjoy a fish and chip supper together while watching the beacon lighting.
For further details, visit ringwood.gov.uk/events/ve-day-80