‘When the lights went on again all over the world’: VE Day celebrations 2025

Though it seems like only yesterday, it was five years ago  – on Friday, May 8, 2020 – that we celebrated the 75th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day: the occasion marking the final capitulation of Nazi Germany to the Allied Forces in World War Two that ended hostilities, following six long years of conflict.

But how the world has changed in the intervening five years. Back then, we were blessed to still have Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II with us as Head of State. A princess when war broke out, the future monarch became the first female member of the royal family to serve as an active duty member of the British armed forces when, at the tender age of 18, she joined the Auxiliary Territorial Service (ATS) as a driver and mechanic.

Then suddenly, in 2020, the world was waging war again, but this time with an insidious new enemy: a global pandemic. Yet despite being unable to celebrate VE Day with relatives due to restrictive governmental health guidelines, we nevertheless marked that occasion in trademark style.

Honouring the past in a new era

“I was only six years old, but I remember it like yesterday. I was in the centre of Midsomer Norton with my mum. The parade was unforgettable — tanks, soldiers, fireworks. The whole town was out celebrating. Even at that young age, I could feel the excitement. I was swept up in the crowd, part of something truly special.” Mr Sperring

On Thursday, May 8, 2025, The Old Rectory joined the nation once again in recalling that momentous event in 1945 when everyday life in the UK ground to a standstill as what seemed like the entire population took to the streets; a time when everyone breathed a communal sigh of relief as they rejoiced in a way that would live long in the memory of all who took part.

This time, however – on the 80th anniversary of that historic milestone – we had a new incumbent on the throne: the beloved Queen’s son, King Charles, and our loved ones were able to join us for an auspicious commemoration, as friends, family, and visitors mixed freely with residents and staff in joyous celebration.

An afternoon of music, memories, and much more 

Set in the tranquility of our garden lawn and beneath a beautifully decorated marquee, 85 guests gathered in the warm sunshine of a late spring afternoon to create a magical atmosphere of music, laughter, and reminiscence.

Featuring a rousing performing by vocalist Jenny Lake, the audience was treated to a musical medley of wartime favourites and ’60s popular classics. From Vera Lynn to Dusty Springfield and The Andrews Sisters to Elvis Presley, each tune stirred a cherished memory while simultaneously keeping everybody’s toes tapping.

But perhaps the most inspiring aspect of the day’s proceedings was the ‘Memory Board’ where residents shared their personal recollections of VE Day. A powerful and eloquently expressed insight into the heightened emotions of the time, they are not only a moving tribute to those present, but a reminder of the dreams and aspirations of all who made that day possible 80 years ago – many of whom sacrificed their lives in the hope of a better tomorrow.

Looking Back, Moving Forward

“I served in the army as a wireless operator at Bulford Camp on Salisbury Plain — now home to The Household Cavalry. I was part of an elite group of 150 women trained in Morse code. On VE Day itself, I happened to be on leave. Later, we gathered for parties and celebrations. We knew the world had changed that day.”
— Mrs Edwards

VE Day 2025 at The Old Rectory was a heartwarming and deeply nostalgic occasion that was about more than simply acknowledging history. It was about honouring connections – the kind that survive time and place through shared experience. Be it in storytelling or song, by remembering together we build a bridge between the past and the present.

But, as always, it wouldn’t have been possible without the hard work and dedication of our entire team. From the kitchen staff who provided the delicious afternoon spread of sandwiches, cakes, and traditional treats, to the carers, housekeepers, maintenance and gardening staff, all of whose time, talents, and collective efforts contributed to providing such a welcoming space, and the kind of event we are all looking forward to repeating – thank you to you all.