2025 marks the 80th Anniversary of both VE Day and VJ, both of which will be marked in Rutland as important anniversaries. 

VE Day this Thursday 8th May will mark 80 years since the end of the Second World War in Europe. 

At 10am at Oakham Castle on VE Day, there will be a Flag Raising ceremony where local dignitaries, veterans, and residents will gather to pay homage to those who served and sacrificed during the war. The ceremony is open to members of the public and will be attended by the Lord-Lieutenant of Rutland Dr Sarah Furness. Rutland County Council will be represented by Vice-Chairman Cllr Samantha Harvey and Armed Forces Champion Cllr David Wilby.

There will be a National Proclamation read out by Paul Ainsley, Mayor of Oakham, as well as a speech by the Lord-Lieutenant. The flag will be raised by representatives from 1st Military Working Dog Regiment, which are stationed at St George's Barracks in North Luffenham. 

These will be followed by prayers and the raising of the official VE Day 80th Anniversary Flag. For those wishing to attend, arrive at Oakham Castle at 9.50am for a prompt 10am start.  

Rutland County Council Armed Forces Champion, Cllr David Wilby, said: "80 years after the end of the Second World War, the number of people who lived through this defining period in our history is growing ever smaller. This makes it even more important that we take time to stop and remember the incredible acts of valour that were carried out to protect our country and way of life. Rutland's connection with the Armed Forces is very special and an immense source of pride to us all." 

There will also be a Beacon Lighting ceremony on the evening of the 8th May in Cutts Close Park, in time with beacons lit in sequence at hundreds of locations across the country. There will also be Morris Dancing and other entertainment in the park to mark the occasion, followed by the beacon lighting ceremony which is scheduled for 9.30pm.  

There will be similar events happening in Uppingham, with the National Proclamation being heard at 9am in the Market Place. In the evening, there will be a gathering at 8.45pm on Tod's Piece followed by live music from 9pm and the Beacon Lighting at 9.30pm.