The City of Ely Council, together with the Ely Branch of the Royal British Legion, were pleased with all those that joined in Ely’s VJ 80 commemorations.
Friday 15th August 2025 was a day to remember, as over 100 people joined the service at Ely’s War Memorial, with the Reverend Canon Richard Darmody leading the service. Speeches of remembrance were made by the Vice Chairman of the RBL, Mr Neil Grimstone, and Chairman of the RBL, Dave Martin leading the Standard Bearers.
Shop staff, local community and visitors all stopped for 2 min silence of reflection at 12noon.
St Mary’s Church was the location for a ‘Tea Party’ with cakes provided by the RBL volunteers, and was followed by a very moving, poignant service led by the Rev Cannon Richard Darmody with a sermon of remembrance from Cllr Chris Phillips.
The Congregation all gathered around the Beacon for prayers and a singalong of wartime songs from Sing! Choirs, followed by the lighting of Ely’s Beacon. The day was met with great joy and thanks as our community remembered those, especially from the Cambridgeshire Regiment who fought in the Far East.
Anna Bennett, Event Manager said “We would like to express our sincere thank to all those that took part in our day of commemoration and celebrations, it was both moving and reflective”
