Beacon lighting and 1620s House celebration among events near Coalville marking VE Day 80th anniversary
Leicestershire County Council has announced two events close to Coalville which will mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day next month.
A beacon is to be lit at Bosworth Battlefield on Thursday, May 8, to mark the historic anniversary, which commemorates the end of the Second World War in Europe.
Leicestershire County Council and the Leicestershire Lieutenancy are hosting or involved in a number of events during the week.
The beacon lighting is being hosted by the County Council in conjunction with the Sheepy Beacon Society. It will take place at 9.30pm and will be one of a series of similar events taking place across the length and breadth of the UK.
The focus for the Lieutenancy's commemoration of the 80th anniversary, in conjunction with Leicester Cathedral, will be an evensong service on Thursday, May 8, at 5.30pm, attended by the Lord-Lieutenant of Leicestershire, the Lord Mayor of Leicester, Chairman of the County Council, other civic dignitaries, armed forces and veterans. This service is open to the public and all are welcome to attend.
Other events taking place to mark the anniversary include a celebration event at the 1620s House and Garden in Donington-le-Heath, near Coalville, on Saturday, May 10, and a week-long series of children's activities at all 16 council-managed libraries, as well as the five museums.
Lord-Lieutenant of Leicestershire, Mike Kapur OBE CStJ, said: "The 80th anniversary of VE Day offers us a poignant opportunity to reflect on the courage, resilience and sacrifice of those who gave so much during the Second World War. I am honoured to be part of this county-wide commemoration, which brings together communities in remembrance and gratitude.
"The evensong service at Leicester Cathedral will provide a moment of solemn reflection, while the lighting of the beacon at Bosworth Battlefield will stand as a powerful symbol of peace, unity and hope for the future—values that remain as vital today as they were eight decades ago."
More information on VE Day 80 events is available from the Leicestershire Lieutenancy HERE.
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