ELY CELEBRATED VE80 – The end of the War in Europe.

Together Visit Ely, The City of Ely Council, Ely Cathedral and the Royal British Legion Ely Branch, Sing Choirs, St Mary’s Church and Ely Cathedral enjoyed a full day of Celebrations to mark this significant anniversary along with the entire nation.

Thursday 8th May 2025 saw an entire programme of events including services of thanksgiving and celebration, military tours, and the lighting of the Beacon.

Ely Cathedral will be offered special interest tours along with a lunchtime performance, the Bell Ringers of St Mary’s Church will join in with bell ringers the length and breadth of the country at 6.30 pm to “Ring Out in Celebration”, commemorating the bells that sounded on the announcement of Victory in Europe in 1945. The Cathedral was lit up with search lights, to remember that day, 80 years ago.

David Martin, Chairman of the Royal British Legion Ely Branch said of the celebrations “As we come to the 80th Anniversaries of VE and VJ Days it’s important to ensure we commemorate and celebrate these two occasions appropriately.  We commemorate those whose sacrifices led to the end of the war in Europe and we must also remember those in the ‘forgotten war’ in the Far East. Especially as the Cambridgeshire Regiment was heavily involved in the Far East conflict. During this time, the RBL in Ely will continue to assist Visit Ely and Ely Cathedral with these and other Acts of Remembrance throughout the year. 

We must never forget those who have served, many who have given the ultimate sacrifice and whose names are recorded on Memorials throughout the world. We also remember those who continue to serve”

Anna Bennett, Manager of Visit Ely, added “What a day that went on into the evening – we were thrilled with how many people turned out to celebrate with us. Matt Routledge, Town Crier (pictured below) kick started the day at Sessions House, through to an evening service of celebration by lighting the Ely Beacon of Peace”. 

A Note on VJ Day 80 – A full programme to celebrate and commemorate the 80th Anniversary of VJ Day will be released in due course once national guidelines are received.