VE beacon set to light night sky in Rochdale

A beacon lit in Rochdale on the anniversary of VE day will be one of just 100 across the UK

A special service to commemorate the end of the Second World War will take place at Rochdale Cenotaph on Friday 8 May.

Rochdale is one of just 100 areas around the United Kingdom chosen to light a beacon to mark the 70th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day - when the Second World War in Europe came to an end.

The 100 beacons will be lit consecutively in a chain after sunset as part of a government-organised initiative to help recreate the national spirit of elation that followed peace breaking out 70 years ago.

Val White, Principal Townships Officer at Rochdale Borough Council, said: “I hope residents will come and remember the sacrifices made for the freedom we enjoy today. The beacon in Rochdale will be lit at 9:32 pm and all are welcome to attend.”

Those not able to attend are encouraged to hold their own VE Day celebrations and local churches have been asked to ring their bells to mark the lighting of the beacon.

Earlier in the day Lancashire Veterans Association will hold a service at the Heywood Garden of Remembrance at 12 noon.

A small service will be held at 3pm at the Cenotaph in Rochdale. Wreaths will be laid and a two minutes silence will be observed.