The countdown to VE Day is on and Swansea residents can get involved by throwing their own street parties.
The council has waived road closure fees for locals who want to close off their street for street parties to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.
The move is part of a range of celebrations and commemorations being staged and supported by the council over the summer between Victory in Europe Day on May 8 and Victory in Japan Day on August 15.
Rob Stewart, Leader of the Council, said: “Owing to the Covid pandemic, we all had to celebrate the 75th anniversary of VE day at home to keep the country safe.
“That’s why this year we want to do all we can to make the anniversary extra special for veterans, their families and the people of Swansea. We owe those who served in World War II – and those who serve today – a debt of gratitude we can never repay.”
He said: “Our programme of celebrations and commemorations have been created following engagement with veterans groups, military representatives and community representatives.
“With its maritime links to the Merchant Navy, the Three Day Blitz endured on the home front and the many thousands from our area who served in the armed services, VE Day is a crucial part of our heritage.
“As well as waiving road closure fees for street parties, we’ll be supporting the Royal British Legion with their commemorations and events for this historic occasion.”
He added: “This summer’s Wales Airshow staged by the council will have a VE Day flavour, including a visit by the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and the Red Arrows. The council will also be setting up a special Veterans’ Village at the two-day event in July.”
Cllr Elliott King, Cabinet Member for Equalities and Culture said: “The generation which served our nation and the cause of freedom around the world during World War II is passing on.
“It’s just one of the reasons why we need to make sure the 80th anniversary of VE Day is a special one.
“On May 8 Oystermouth Castle will be lighting the Castle Beacon and Lamp of Peace as part of community celebrations featuring music of the era and special guests.
“Swansea Museum has also launched a VE Day commemorations exhibition that will run through to the summer.”
The UK Government has declared four days of commemorative events, starting on the Bank Holiday, May 5, and finishing on VE Day itself, May 8.
Find out more about how to book a road closure for your street party: https://www.swansea.gov.uk/organisestreetparty
Anyone doing a street party is strongly advised to get their event insured.
And here’s details about VE Day events so far announced and supported by the council:
From April 11
Swansea Museum – VE80 exhibition
May 8
Christchurch – VE Day Veterans Service, 11.30am
Oystermouth Castle – Beacon lighting takes place at 9.30pm
Guildhall, Swansea
Lit up to commemorate VE Day
May 11
VE Day anniversary event, Air Defence Gun, Tawe Bridge
VE Day anniversary parade from John Chard House at 1.30pm to arrive at Swansea Minster (St Mary’s Church) at 2pm
VE Day anniversary service, Swansea Minster, (St Mary’s Church), city centre. 1.45pm
