Local councillors approved £40,000 for VE Day’s 80th anniversary. Grants of £500 will support 80 community groups.
VE Day marks when Germany surrendered in Europe. This anniversary will be celebrated all over Europe. A national program is also planned across the UK. The 75th anniversary had COVID restrictions five years ago.
This makes the 80th anniversary even more important. A working group met to plan events on February 6. Officials researched UK-wide celebratory events.
The VE Day flag will fly at Craigavon headquarters at 9 am. Craigavon Lakes will host a beacon lighting at 9:30 pm. A reception is possible, costing up to £1,500. A church event is planned for May 7 in Armagh.
It’s at St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Logistical support will cost about £2,500. A museum exhibition is also planned for everyone. Schools and local communities should get involved.
They can do it with special educational projects. Councillor McIlwrath wants the program to be widespread. Armagh and Craigavon are involved.
He mentioned Dromore, Rathfriland, and Banbridge too. These areas should also get some support. He suggested a £40,000 fund. Eighty groups could get £500 each. He hoped everyone would support his figure. Alderman Moutray supported the councillor’s idea.