Today marks 80 years since VE (Victory in Europe) Day when the Second World War came to an end in Europe.
Published: Thursday, 8th May 2025
80 years ago today, the Second World War came to an end in Europe. Ever since, this historic event has been marked annually on 8th May as VE (Victory in Europe) Day.
At the time, the long anticipated news resulted in spontaneous celebrations breaking out across the nation. A national holiday was declared and people from all walks of life came together to mark the moment.
However, this was not the end of the global conflict with the war in the East only coming to an end later in the year on 15 August 1945, when Japan surrendered. This day was celebrated across the world as ‘Victory over Japan’ (VJ Day).
Marking the 80th anniversary of VE Day, Hounslow Council Leader Cllr Shantanu Rajawat said:
Today, we mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day and remember the resilience and sacrifice of all those who fought and died in the Second World War - both at home and abroad - to end war in Europe, and to ensure a brighter future for us all, free of tyranny.
Hounslow Council is proud to join communities commemorating this historic event, both across the borough and nationally. We will mark the anniversary with a service at Holy Trinity Church, attended by the Leader, Mayor, Deputy Lieutenant plus representatives from veterans across our borough’ where we will remember and celebrate the spirit of unity and community that was so evident on VE Day here in our One Hounslow.
We are committed to ensuring that history is not forgotten, and that lessons are learned and passed on to future generations. We are proud to stand together today, remembering, learning, and moving forward with hope and determination.
VE Day 80 events and activities will be taking place across the country, and to find information about those in and around West London, visit the official VE Day website. The Government has also given an automatic extension for pubs and bars licensed to sell alcohol up to 11pm, to stay open for two hours longer through to 1am to mark the occasion.
