North West Leicestershire District Council (NWLDC) has given out £2,000 in grants to support residents in commemorating the 80th anniversary of VE Day.

The VE Day grant was for community groups to apply for up to £500 on any project that honoured the anniversary of VE Day.

Groups that received a grant were:

• Ibstock Historical Society - produced a book remembering those locally who lost their lives in WW2
• Whitwick Scouts – held a community event commemorating 80 years of VE Day with a parade of light and the lighting of the Beacon
• Ibstock Palace - held a number of community events, two film nights, a local history day and social events 
• Ibstock Town Cricket Club - held a community event on Monday 5 May to celebrate VE Day.

Councillor Michael Wyatt, Portfolio Holder for Communities and Climate Change at NWLDC, said: "We were proud to support our local communities in marking such a significant milestone in our nation's history.

"VE Day is a time to reflect on the sacrifices made by so many brave and honourable people.



"It's wonderful to see groups across the district coming together to honour this anniversary in creative and meaningful ways."

Councillor Kenny Horn, Chairman of NWLDC, said: "Thank you to everyone who is taking part in the commemorations and helping keep the spirit of VE Day alive.

"These events are a testament to the strong community spirit we have in North West Leicestershire.

"It's been inspiring to see how the grant funding has enabled groups to come together, remember our history, and pay tribute to those who served."

For more information on the grants available and how to apply, click HERE.