Find out what you can do during lockdown for VE Day

And this year marks its 75th anniversary since it was announced that Nazi Germany had unconditionally surrendered, signalling the end of the Second World War in Europe.

Many streets, councils, and organisations had big plans to celebrate the day, but because of the current coronavirus pandemic, which has resulted in a worldwide lockdown and strict social distancing rules, these have had to be cancelled or postponed.

The UK is being asked to come together at 9pm to sing Dame Vera’s classic song ‘We’ll Meet Again’ outside their homes be that in their gardens or stood in the street.

A number of different councils across the county are asking members of the public to have their own stay at home party. Flyers have been shared asking people to decorate their house in red, white and blue flags, enjoy a picnic in their own garden with good food and games and commemorate the anniversary with their family.

On the day, the Royal British Legion is organising a number of remote activity events that everyone can get involved in, including: a live VE Day 75 webcast at 11.15am; national moments of remembrance and thanksgiving; and a VE Day learning pack for children aged seven-14.

Councillor Mary Mears is chairman of the Brighton-Hove Branch of the Royal British Legion and Conservative councillor for Rottingdean Coastal ward. She said: “We can harness the spirit of the community to mark VE Day and bring our community and country together once more as we face this pandemic together.”

Alongside national events taking place, some local residents are hoping people will join in celebrating in new and interesting ways.

Harding Avenue in Eastbourne is asking its residents to decorate its home in red, white and blue and have a picnic in your front garden between 3pm and 6pm.

In Oak Tree Way, Hailsham there will be music and celebrations from noon until late weather permitting. Vintage dress optional and social distancing rules apply but people are being asked to enjoy a picnic with drinks and nibbles.

Pashley Road in Eastbourne is hosting a celebration.

At 11.50am a trumpeter will march down the road to summon the citizens out.

11.58am families are being asked to gather at their gates. At noon a trumpet will blow and a Mexican wave will start - cheer, clap and wave from numbers one and two up the road. People are being asked to greet neighbours, either side and opposite. And raise a drink health, with toast to peace.

John Boyle’s “Melody” will be playing popular tunes of the period.

Across the country buglers, trumpeters and cornet players are being asked to consider playing the Last Post from the safety of their front or back garden, outside their front door or from their balcony or window at 2.55pm.

Alan Cooper in Upper Horsebridge will be taking part

He said: “I am a trumpet player of many years and up for it.

“I feel it should be marked even in the current situation as so many died in the winning of the freedom and to let it go by without some moment on the 8th.

“This was the end of a six year battle which many women and men died and many suffered from their services after the war was over.

“Today we have another battle and rightly so it is being marked every week I go out on a Thursday at 8pm and play my trumpet to thank the NHS workers

“So on the 8th I think it would be great for anyone with any musical instrument to go out at 2.55pm the time the war ended in Europe.”

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