WORCESTERSHIRE people are being urged to break out the bunting and celebrate the 70th anniversary of Victory in Europe, otherwise known as VE Day.

The call comes from both the Royal British Legion and the Government, to make sure there is a weekend of celebrations over three days, from Friday May 8 to Sunday, May 10.

Local communities are being asked to come together and place the Second World War generation at the heart of the party.

David Lowe, The Royal British Legion’s Area Manager for the South West Midlands, said: “We are honoured to play our part in helping the nation mark 70 years since the end of the Second World War in Europe. The Legion has a responsibility to help the memories of those of who have fought and died in our nation’s Armed Forces live on for future generations. The commemoration of this conflict, still in living memory, gives us the opportunity to salute the Second World War generation.

“We hope that all communities will use the VE Day 70 commemorations to thank them and celebrate the role they played in our nation’s history.”

The Legion is working in partnership with the Government to mark the anniversary and hopes that community halls, public spaces and homes will be decked with bunting and playing music to recreate the celebrations of 70 years ago.

Community celebrations will reflect the national events taking place in London where Second World War veterans are invited to attend as the nation’s VIPs.

On Sunday May 10, there will a Service of Thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey, followed by a parade from the Abbey to Horse Guards Parade and into St James’s Park, where the Legion will host a lunch reception for the veterans.

Worcestershire residents not planning on organising events can find out what is happening in their local area at www.veday.org.uk or on the local government websites www.gov.uk/veday70