08-05-2025
- General
- Pembrokeshire Herald
Wales falls silent to honour VE Day anniversary
Commemorations mark 80 years since the end of war in Europe
A TWO-MINUTE silence was observed across Wales at 12:00pm to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day, paying tribute to all those who fought and died during World War Two.
At the Senedd in Cardiff Bay, Members of the Senedd stood solemnly in the atrium alongside military personnel, with many bowing their heads during the national act of remembrance.
Events have been taking place across the country throughout the day to commemorate the end of the war in Europe on 8 May 1945. In Cardiff, the silence was joined by people across the UK.
In Wrexham, services were held throughout the city, including a ceremony at St Giles Church. In Abergele, Conwy, pupils at Ysgol Glan Gele took part in a special assembly, followed by afternoon tea.
In Ceredigion, a memorial service was held in the town's Memorial Hall, followed by a ceremonial flag-raising. A bonfire beacon will be lit this evening, visible from Glyn Square at 9:30pm.
Monmouthshire marked the day with the Royal Monmouthshire Royal Engineers raising their flag, followed by a tree-planting ceremony on the town field. A public service will be held later this afternoon at Monmouth Castle, with the landmark being illuminated in the evening.
These commemorations in Wales coincide with a national service of thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey, attended by the King and Queen, the Prime Minister, and senior members of the Royal Family.
The day's events will culminate in a large-scale concert at Horse Guards Parade in London, where thousands are expected to gather to celebrate the end of the war in Europe.
VE Day originally saw millions flood the streets on 8 May 1945 in a wave of celebration after nearly six years of conflict.
The Pembrokeshire Herald's coverage of the VE Day 80 commemorations are kindly sponsored by PMR
