Warrington Remembers 80th Anniversary of Victory in Europe Day

Warrington celebrated the World War II victory with the rest of the country. A photo from Warrington Museum shows a street party in Orford. It was one of many parties in May 1945.

The war wasn’t fully over until later. However, some things returned to normal after VE Day. Warrington Walking Day restarted on June 29. VJ Day celebrations happened on August 15 and 16. This occurred after Japan surrendered.

Rugby returned to Wilderspool Stadium after six years, bringing huge crowds back. On August 18, a ceremony occurred at the Town Hall where they presented a plaque to the town. The USAAF commander from Burtonwood gave it, thanking the town for welcoming Americans.

The Warrington Guardian Year Book wrote about 1945, stating the year would always be remembered. Warrington joined the nation celebrating victories over Germany and Japan. Walking Day returned, which was great, and the HMS Obdurate also visited.

Warrington residents celebrated for days after May 8. Decorations appeared everywhere, almost magically. Streets featured outdoor parties with tea, games, and dances. Churches held thanksgiving services for everyone.

Bank Park and the Town Hall lawn held celebrations on both VE Day and VJ Day. There were fireworks and bands playing music. Similar events happened at Victoria Park and Orford Park, as people organized street parties everywhere.