80 years on from the momentous day on 8th May 1945, which marked Victory in Europe (VE Day), Southwark will be marking the occasion with parties, celebrations and commemorations.
After being at war for over five-and-a-half years, this day marked the surrender of the German forces. Londoners reacted by throwing a city-wide party, with huge crowds gathering in Trafalgar Square and smaller parties cropping up all over London.
This year, it has been 80 years since this victorious day and Southwark will be marking the occasion in numerous ways. From nostalgic commemorations of those who lived through the war, to street parties and pubs staying open until 1am.
VE Day nostalgia in Southwark:
Memories from a South London soldier released in a book:
To mark 80 years since victory, the aunt and granddaughter of an RAF fighter from Deptford have compiled his diaries and memoirs.
Air Raids and RAF Days is based on John Teagues real experience living as an RAF soldier. It was initially compiled as a 90th birthday gift for John who lived to the age of 100 before passing away in 2022.
The book has now been refined and released to the public, so that future generations can connect with the untold human stories of WWII.
John served in the civil defence air raid control centre in Camberwell Town Hall and was tasked with requisitioning houses and re-homing bombed out families. He later served in the RAF as a wireless mechanic and was stationed across Europe, returning home in 1946.
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Della says: “John was just an ordinary boy who loved books and wanted to study, he didn’t come from wealth or privilege, but he lived through extraordinary times and we wanted to honour that.
“This book is about more than war. It’s about resilience, love, and family.”
Air Raids and RAF Days is available now via Amazon and selected retailers.
East Dulwich church honours the Vicar that led to its reconstruction following WW2 bombing:
As party of their VE commemorations, St John the Evangelist in Goose Green will be honouring the Revd Charles McKenzie who took a leading role its reconstruction after the war.
A memorial plaque will be dedicated to the vicar during a service on Sunday 4th May.
The Bishop of Woolwich and the family of Revd McKenzie will attend.
The church will also celebrate 160 years since it’s consecration. It first opened on 16th May1865 but was almost completely destroyed by air raids during the Blitz in 1940.
Despite this, the church continued its ministry throughout the war. It used air raid shelters and hospitals to maintain worship, even as bombs fell nearby.
It wasn’t until 1946, when Revd McKenzie arrived as the vicar that plans began to restore it, with the church finally rededicated in 1951.
Charles McKenzie’s children, John and Mary, say: “We are delighted that our father’s contribution to the rebuilding of St John’s is being recognised.
“For us and the wider family , it is also wonderful for his life and work to be permanently commemorated on this new plaque.”
Location: St John the Evangelist, 62A East Dulwich Road, London, SE22 9AT
Date: Sunday 4th May
Time: 10am
Parties and Pubs:
Like Londoners did 80 years ago, there will be numerous opportunities to celebrate across Southwark to commemorate VE Day.
Pubs will be allowed to stay open until 1am to mark the occasion.
Party at Elmington Estate:
Councillor Dora Dixon-Fyle will be opening the Elmington Estate’s 80th anniversary party on Saturday 3rd May.
Val Fenn, the Chair of the Tenant and Resident Association (MBE), says that anyone from the local area is welcome to attend.
The Chelsea Pensioners, the iconic faces of the British Army’s veteran community will be making an appearance and so will firefighters from Peckham Road Fire Station.
In terms of refreshments, there will be hot dogs, slush puppies, popcorn jerk chicken and other snacks donated by Saltash construction, who works closely with the Tenant and Resident Association .
Other activities include face painting, music, and head and shoulder massages.
Location: 2 Owgan Close, Benhill Road, SE5 7SH
Time: Saturday 3rd May, 12pm – 4pm
After-hours party aboard HMS Belfast:
Dance the night away with a party reminiscent of the streets of Britain in May 1945.
The HMS Belfast will be open till late to mark the occasion. There will be a complimentary glass of Prosecco and a chance to explore the iconic ship.
You can dance on all nine of the ships deck, listening to the vocal trio The Charlalas and interact with living history re-enactors. Please note, as alcohol is being served this event is for adults aged 18+ only.
Location: HMS Belfast
Time: 5th May, 6pm-9:30pm.
Tickets: £35.00
Choir performance at the Imperial War Museum:
Visit the IWM London to hear a live performance of songs from the 1940s to the present day.
They will be sung by members of local London choirs, blending feelings of celebration, sadness and community to commemorate the day the war came to an end.
Location: Atrium, Imperial War Museum, Lambeth Rd, London SE1 6HZ
Time: 3pm
Tickets: No ticket required, free event
Family street party at the Imperial War Museum:
Families and communities can come together at IMW London’s family hub for street party activities.
This will include interactive workshops, paper hat making, flower making and paper plat portraiture and games for children.
Location: Family Hub, Imperial War Museum, Lambeth Rd, London SE1 6HZ
Time: all day
Tickets: No ticket required, free event
