Highland residents urged to support online public commemorations for 75th anniversary of VE Day held during coronavirus pandemic
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Highland Council is supporting national public commemorations of the 75th anniversary of VE Day.
The ongoing coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic has meant that plans for the landmark anniversary – which were to include a parade, public concert and reception – will now take place online, with a video message of thanks from First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and a concert in addition to a service and two minute silence.
It is led by Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland in partnership with the Scottish Government.
The commemorations will include children and families.
Councillor Roddy Balfour, Highland Council's Armed Forces and Veterans' Champion, said: “VE Day marks the end of World War Two in Europe which was a day of great rejoicing. It was the day freedom triumphed over the forces of an evil dictatorship which had cost the lives of millions of people.
“We would normally mark VE Day with an ecumenical service held in Inverness but this is not possible due to the Covid-19 lockdown.
“We welcome the Scottish Government’s announcement today that there will be an online service of remembrance and a two-minute silence which will lead Scotland’s public commemorations of the 75th anniversary of VE Day on May 8.”
The Legion Scotland Service of Remembrance will be broadcast via Legion Scotland and Poppy Scotland’s social media channels from 10.40am until 11.15am and an online concert will then begin at 11.45am until 1pm.
The First Minister’s message will be posted on Twitter @scotgov
In addition to virtual events, Poppyscotland have also produced a range of online educational resources for families. These can be found here.
