Rutland to Mark VE Day Anniversary with Flag Raising Ceremony at Historic Oakham Castle

Rutland to Mark VE Day Anniversary with Flag Raising Ceremony at Historic Oakham Castle

Oakham will come together on Thursday, May 8th, to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE Day) with a special flag raising ceremony at Oakham Castle. The event will serve as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during the Second World War and a tribute to those who fought for peace.

VE Day, observed annually on May 8th across the United Kingdom, marks the formal acceptance by the Allies of World War II of Nazi Germany's unconditional surrender of its armed forces.

This year's anniversary holds particular significance as it marks eight decades since the end of the conflict in Europe.   

The ceremonial flag raising will commence at 10:00 am within the grounds of Oakham Castle. Dignitaries and members of the public are invited to attend this meaningful event. The VE Day 80th anniversary flag will be raised by representatives from the 1st Military Working Dog Regiment, currently stationed at St George’s Barracks in nearby North Luffenham, underscoring Rutland's strong ties with the Armed Forces.

The ceremony will be graced by the presence of His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Rutland, Dr Sarah Furness. Rutland County Council will be represented by Vice-Chairman Councillor Samantha Harvey and Armed Forces Champion Councillor David Wilby. Adding a local voice to the commemoration, the Mayor of Oakham, Councillor Paul Ainsley, will deliver a special proclamation.

Councillor David Wilby, Rutland County Council Armed Forces Champion, emphasised the importance of the occasion, stating: “80 years after the end of the Second World War, the number of people who lived through this defining period in our history is growing ever smaller. This makes it even more important that we take time to stop and remember the incredible acts of valour that were carried out to protect our country and way of life. Rutland’s connection with the Armed Forces is very special and an immense source of pride to us all.”

The commemorations in Oakham will extend beyond the flag raising ceremony. On the evening of Thursday, May 8th, Oakham Castle will be illuminated in the patriotic colours of red, white, and blue, creating a visual spectacle of remembrance. Later that evening, at 9:30 pm, Oakham Town Council will host a Beacon Lighting ceremony in Cutts Close Park, providing another opportunity for the community to reflect and pay their respects.

Looking ahead, further events are planned in Oakham on Sunday, June 29th. A special parade, church service, and a celebratory ‘party in the park’ will form part of a weekend dedicated to honouring the 80th anniversary of VE Day and VJ Day (Victory over Japan), as well as this year’s annual Armed Forces Day.

The flag raising ceremony at Oakham Castle on May 8th promises to be a moving tribute to a pivotal moment in history, bringing the community together to remember the past and appreciate the peace we enjoy today. All are welcome to attend and be a part of this significant commemoration.