We Met Again at the VE Day 80th Anniversary

More than 500 local residents came together to commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE Day with a dedicated service at the Wimbledon War Memorial.

They were entertained by the Wandle Concert Band playing 1940s favourites from Glenn Miller to Vera Lynn, before the service of remembrance conducted by Reverand Lotwina Farodoye of Christ Church, West Wimbledon.

Tributes were read by representatives of the four services, including our own keeper Carl Lacey, who had previously served with the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment for 24 years. A sombre moment was shared when the Last Post was played, followed by a minute’s silence.

Lanterns were laid on the Memorial by community representatives including Wimbledon MP Paul Kohler and WPCC Chair Mauro Mattiuzo, while the official VE Day beacon was lit by Mayor of Merton, Councillor Slawek Szczepanski, its flames blazing against the night sky. An enthusiastic and moving rendition of Jerusalem and the National Anthem and a blessing read by Reverend Lotwina concluded the service. 

The Commons will host another Remembrance Service to mark the VJ Day 80th anniversary on Saturday 16th August  at the Windmill enclosure, commemorating all those who served in the Asia-Pacific and marking the date when the Second World War finally ended. Further details will be shared in due course.