Dorset marks VE Day with torch processions and street parties
The sound of street parties and live music will be filling the air across Dorset as the county marks 80 years since VE Day.Torchlight processions, afternoon teas, picnics and exhibitions will also take place throughout the week to commemorate the end of World War Two in Europe.About 40 communities have been granted road closures for street parties on Monday but many more celebrations will be taking place in parks and gardens.Beacons will be lit across the UK on VE Day, 8 May, and church bells will ring out.
In Lyme Regis, a torchlight procession will take place on Thursday evening, with torchbearers walking from Langmoor and Lister Gardens to Sandy Beach where they will form a "ring of fire".A parade with red lanterns will also take place in Verwood, from St Michael's Church to the War Memorial on Ferrett Green.In Abbotsbury, residents have been painting large banners that are now hanging from cottages throughout the village.The 25 artworks depict wartime themes and will remain on display throughout the week.Local bands will be taking to the stage on Weymouth seafront on Saturday 10 May.
A free concert will also be held at the bandstand in Dorchester's Borough Gardens on Sunday 11 May, with music from the Durnovaria Silver Band and the Decadettes vintage singing group.Many more events are taking place, organised by Dorset Council, BCP, town and parish councils, charities and local groups.Most areas will also be holding memorial services and ceremonies.There are more than a dozen official beacon locations across the county, including Burton Bradstock, Lytchett Matravers, Corfe Castle and Wimborne Cemetery.Chair of Dorset Council Stella Jones will host the beacon lighting at Durlston Castle, while BCP Council chairman Lesley Dedman will lead proceedings at Bournemouth Civic Centre's beacon.Dorset Council's community engagement councillor, Ryan Hope, said: "The 80th anniversaries of VE Day give us a chance to come together and honour the sacrifices made by many during the war. "Whether you're attending a local event, hosting a street party or sharing stories from the past, we encourage everyone in Dorset to take part in commemorations and celebrations."
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