THE Royal British Legion and the government are calling on the people of Worcestershire to mark the 70th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day (VE Day) with a weekend of celebrations.

Local communities are being urged to come together and place the Second World War generation at the heart of the party from Friday, May 8, to Sunday, May 10.

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

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.”

Local 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.

Veterans can register to attend by a deadline of Friday (April 17) by visiting britishlegion.org.uk or calling 0808 8028080.

To find out what events are happening locally visit veday.org.uk

Top ideas for hosting a celebration include organising a 1940s-style tea dance or fancy dress competition, a community sing-along of wartime songs or using ration recipes to create food from the era.