Trafford Centre announces major event with army vehicles, military displays and street party

The Trafford Centre has unveiled plans for VE Day 80th anniversary celebrations

The Trafford Centre has announced a day of remembrance, reflection and family fun as it marks 80 years since Victory in Europe Day.

VE Day, which falls on May 8 each year, is a day to celebrate the end of World War II in Europe and it marks the day the Allies accepted Germany's surrender in 1945.

People are being urged to celebrate the 80th anniversary of VE day with street parties as four days of concerts, services and processions were announced.

At The Trafford Centre on Saturday, 10 May and in aid of the Army Benevolent Fund charity, the shopping centre is inviting visitors to come together for a poignant and vibrant celebration with a ‘Great Hall Street Party’, including military displays and live entertainment.

Guests will be able to explore a fascinating Veterans Living History Museum in The Orient, packed with artefacts from WW1 to the present-day - including gas masks, medals, ration books, military headdress and more.

Outside the Great Hall will be a battlefield ambulance, military vehicle and an interactive British army recruitment stand where the public can try on kit and equipment, ask questions and seek advice on joining the Regular and Reserve Army.

The 103 Regiment Royal Artillery will also be displaying a LL18 field gun on Lower Peel Avenue (outside Boots).

There will be live entertainment from the pipes and drums, The Hootin’ Annies Big Band and Royal Air Force Air Cadets Band.

At 1pm, the Mayor of Trafford, Councillor Amy Whyte, will attend as centre representatives officially re-sign the Armed Forces Covenant, reaffirming the centre’s commitment to the Armed Forces community.

Simon Layton, Centre Director, said: “VE Day is an incredibly important moment in our history, and we’re proud to honour the courage, sacrifice and resilience of the generation who lived through it.

"This event is not only a tribute to them, but also a chance for families to come together, learn, and celebrate the freedoms we enjoy today.

"It also reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community. It promises to be a truly memorable day.”

The 80th anniversary of VE [Victory in Europe] Day falls on Thursday, May 8. The occasion marks the date the Second World War ended in 1945.

The date was declared a public holiday by former Prime Minister Winston Churchill so people can come together, remember those who fought for our freedom and celebrate the peace they secured for future generations.

This year, to mark the occasion, The Cenotaph will be dressed in Union flags and there will be a military procession from Whitehall to Buckingham Palace and an RAF flypast over London.

On May 8, there will be a party at Horse Guards Parade showed live on BBC One.

The Trafford Centre will hold its VE Day celebration on Saturday, 10 May from 10am until 10pm. Performances will take place from midday until 6pm.

Events and activities will include a Ceremonies of Remembrance, a street party, army vehicles. musical performances, a RAF band and historical exhibitions.