VE Day-80
Published: 09 May 2025
Image courtesy of Paul Wells
Thursday 8th May 2025, marked the 80th Anniversary of ‘Victory in Europe Day’, which has come to be known as VE Day. Bognor Regis’ Town Crier, Jane Smith, began the commemorations by reading the official Proclamation, from one of the country’s oldest Victorian Bathing Machines, currently housed in Bognor Regis Museum.
Photographers from national news outlets, including ITN were present to film her ‘cry’ and members of the public stopped by, to watch Jane in action! A big thank you to the Museum for allowing us to film here.
Later, Bognor Regis Town Council held a special Beacon Lighting, at the seafront beacon brazier, in which the Town Crier led the crowds in a rousing rendition of ‘I Vow to Thee My Country’, which was followed by a mesmerising electric LED violin performance from Alleya.
Alongside others across the UK, Channel Islands and the Isle of Man, to symbolise the 'light of peace' that emerged from the darkness of war, the beacon was lit by the Mayor and Town Crier, assisted by two Scots Guard Pipers, in front of the gathered crowds, who had come out to celebrate this important anniversary.