The call went out, the flags went up, windows were decorated, the town crier marked the start of the day and Chilton celebrated in style, reports Sue Reece.
Across South Durham, towns and villages joined millions of people around the world in celebrating the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe and to commemorate the 75 – 80 million military personnel and civilians who gave their lives during World War 2, to secure our freedom from tyranny.
Councillor Pearl Malpas, Chair of Community and Events Committee said: “In Chilton, residents pulled out all of the stops to decorate the streets and join in the celebrations.”
VE Day 80 is also an opportunity to recognise the sacrifice of all of our veterans, serving soldiers, their families and communities, by supporting organisations like Combat Stress, the British Legion and SSAFA to provide ongoing support for both the physical and mental wellbeing of all those affected by combat.
The act of remembering and marking these key events in our history ensures that the personal stories of those who fought and contributed to the war effort during the 1940s will never be forgotten.
We should all give our thanks to everyone who waved their flags, stood in silence, made tea and cakes, shared memories and boogie woogied on the dance floor to commemorate the 80th Anniversary of Victory in Europe.
Sue Reece
Ferryhill & Chilton's local community newspaper.
