Bedford Borough Council is proud to announce a special VE Day 80 Flag Raising Ceremony on Thursday 8 May 2025, from 10.30-11.15am at Harpur Square (what3words ///chat.point.grows). This dignified event will mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, a pivotal moment in history when the formal acceptance of Nazi Germany’s unconditional surrender brought an end to World War II in Europe.
The ceremony will include a one-minute silence at 11am, followed by the raising of the VE Day 80 flag - a symbol of national celebration, reflection, and remembrance. The event is hosted by Bedford Borough Council in partnership with the Bedford Branch of the Royal British Legion. The service will be conducted with the support of a serving member of the military, a bugler playing the Last Post and Reveille, and a piper from the Bedford Pipe Band who will perform ‘Celebratum,’ a piece specially composed for VE Day commemorations across the UK.
Elected Mayor of Bedford Borough, Tom Wootton, said; “VE Day is a day of profound significance, reminding us of the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of those who served and those on the Home Front. As we mark 80 years since that historic day, I encourage all Bedford Borough residents to join us in Harpur Square to honour our shared history, remember those who gave so much, and celebrate the peace and freedoms we enjoy today. Together, let us reflect on the past and look forward with hope.”
In addition to the flag raising, Bedford Borough will host further VE/VJ Day 80th Anniversary Celebrations on Sunday 11 May 2025. These will include a parade through the town led by the Bedford Pipe Band, a church service of thanksgiving at St Paul’s Church, the raising of the official VE Day 80 flag at the Old Town Hall, and a troop inspection with presentations in Riverside Square. These events pay tribute not only to those who served in His Majesty’s Armed Forces but also to the vital contributions of the Home Front during the war.
Royal British Legion Bedford Branch Chairman, Peter Davies, said; “Sadly, as they become fewer and fewer, this may be the last chance we will have to honour and thank those who served during the Second World War in person. We would particularly like to hear from any World War II Veterans still living in Bedford Borough, so that they can receive a special invitation to join us on the afternoon of Sunday 11 May.”
Residents are warmly invited to attend these commemorations to honour the memory of those who fought for peace and freedom. The Council has also encouraged communities to come together by hosting local street parties, with road closure fees waived to support this spirit of celebration and community cohesion.
Event Details:
VE Day 80 Flag Raising Ceremony
- Date: Thursday 8 May 2025
- Time: 10.30-11.15am (One-minute silence at 11am)
- Location: Harpur Square, Bedford (what3words ///chat.point.grows)
VE/VJ Day 80th Anniversary Celebrations
- Date: Sunday, 11 May 2025
- Parade starts at 2.30pm from Midland Road (what3words ///sends.congratulations.awake)
- Church Service at 3pm, St Paul’s Church
- Flag Raising at Old Town Hall at 4pm
- Troop Inspection and Presentations at Riverside Square from 4.05pm (what3words ///sends.congratulations.awake)
- Please be aware that times may change on the day, depending on running times of the parade and Church Service.
Bedford Borough Council looks forward to welcoming residents to these important commemorations as we remember and honour the legacy of VE Day.