Bangor will join communities across the UK and beyond on Thursday, 8th May, in marking the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, a national day of remembrance honouring the millions who fought, endured, and sacrificed to secure peace and freedom during the Second World War.
From sunrise to nightfall, the country will echo with the sound of church bells, town criers, and bagpipes, with flags flying high and symbolic lights illuminating the night sky. Bangor’s own tribute will take place at 9 pm at the War Memorial in Glanrafon Car Park, culminating in the lighting of a beacon at 9.30 pm, part of a UK-wide network of more than a thousand Beacons and Lamp Lights of Peace.
The ceremony will be led by Bangor City Council in collaboration with the Right Reverend David Morris, Bishop of Bardsey and Assistant Bishop of Bangor. In a poignant visual tribute, the names of all local individuals who lost their lives during World War II will be projected onto the walls of the Pontio building, in a beautiful and poignant display, ensuring their legacy will continue to shine.
Dr Martin Hanks, Bangor City Director, said: “It is both humbling and a great honour for Bangor to be part of this significant national tribute. The lighting of the Beacon and Lamp Lights of Peace symbolises the enduring legacy of those who gave everything for our freedom.
“As we commemorate eighty years since VE Day, we do so with deep gratitude and solemn reflection, remembering not only those from our own communities, but the brave souls from all nations who stood together in the face of darkness. These lights are a reminder of the peace they forged, and a promise that their sacrifice will never be forgotten.”
The Bangor VE Day event will start at 9 pm at the War Memorial, Glanrafon Car Park, and is expected to last around 40 minutes, with the lighting of the beacon taking place at 9.30 pm.
Photo: The War Memorial, Glanrafon car park, Bangor.
