Brightlingsea residents gathered around the town’s war memorial for a poignant ceremony to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII on May 8 – Victory in Europe Day.

The 9am event was attended by former members of the services, councillors, members of the Cinque Port Liberty of Brightlingsea, year 5 pupils from Brightlingsea Junior School, children from Munchkins Nursery and members of the public.

Town Crier Alan Stevens read the Proclamation to the Anniversary: “Eighty years ago today the United Kingdom and its allies from around the globe celebrated VE Day – the end of the war in Europe. Today as we come together to commemorate what came to be known as VE Day our thoughts turn to thanksgiving and remembrance of those millions that gave so much to achieve the freedom we all enjoy today. We remember those we lost, those who were wounded or scarred, those whose lives were forever changed by war. Nobody was immune from the impact of that terrible conflict. Let us pause to remember their sacrifice.”

As flags from the Royal Navy, Army, Royal Airforce and merchant marine fluttered from the flagpole beneath the Union Flag, wreaths were laid by Town Mayor John Carr, Deputy Iain Werngren, members of the British Legion and pupils from the junior school.

Addressing the crowd, Cllr Carr said: “VE Day reminds us of the bravery of the soldiers who fought, the strength of the families who waited, and the sacrifices made by millions to protect freedom and peace.”

He added: “As we stand her together, let’s take a moment to remember those who gave so much for the lives we enjoy today. Let’s promise to always value peace, to stand up for what is right, and to look after each other with kindness and respect.”

At 9.30pm, the Memorial was scheduled to be the venue for the Lighting of the Beacon and reading of the Tribute, and on Sunday May 11 at 3pm, a VE Day 80th Anniversary Service at the War Memorial is planned.