Churches throughout Norfolk and Waveney have begun to host events remembering and reflecting on the memory of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, as the nation prepares to commemorate 80 years since the end of the Second World War.
With many events having been held during the weekend preceding the milestone, communities are planning to unite for a varied array of commemorative activities in the days either side of the anniversary on Thursday 8 May 2025.
A key element of the commemoration for many churches across the Diocese of Norwich will be the ringing of church bells at 6.30pm on VE Day, echoing the sounds that swept across the country in 1945.
A range of resources available to support churches in marking VE Day 80 can be accessed here.
Community in full bloom
As part of the VE Day commemorations, St Andrew’s Church in Quidenham has hosted a three-day Flowers & History Festival between 2-4 May.
Central to the event was an exhibition assembled and curated by Christine Patrick, whose family worshipped in Quidenham for many years. The display featured items including a remarkable wedding dress made using parachute silk.
The flower arrangements showcased at the church as part of the festival were made using only flowers which would have been available to ladies in the village during wartime, with a plethora of other artefacts including historical records and militaria made available for visitors to explore.
Not motivated by fundraising but harnessing community spirit ahead of the VE Day anniversary, the church enjoyed great success – with 320 visitors coming through the doors of St Andrew’s.
On Thursday 8 May, the church will host a village-wide wartime supper in its Reading Room, before attendees head out to light the beacon on Quidenham village green.