Ruddington VE Day Running Order

Whilst stringent UK Government ‘lockdown’ rules to keep us ‘safe’ during the COVID-19 Coronavirus epidemic remain in place, villagers in Ruddington are finding other ways to celebratethe 75th Anniversary of VE Day (Victory in Europe) today (May 8th) – marking the end of the Second World War against Germany.
In place of the usual gatherings, street parties and other commemorative, community events, Ruddington residents are being encouraged to mark the milestone witha ‘Stay at Home Street Party’instead – where we can decorate our house in patriotic red, white & blue, and enjoy a picnic in our front garden. That way householders can interact with their nearest neighbours whilst still maintaining the required two metres of ‘social distancing’.
Residents of Wilford Crescent in Ruddington pictured celebrating with a non-socially distanced street party the day after VE Day – 9th May 1945. {Image courtesy of Gavin Walker}
Additionally, there are other ‘virtual’ events we can opt into throughout the day – from specially pre-recorded messages and ‘live’ acts from Ruddington schools and music venues to nationally organised participation opportunities.
VIRTUAL VE DAY RUNNING ORDER
9.00am – James Peacock Infant & Nursery School’s VE Day Assembly
Our younger visitors can join Head Teacher Mr Waldron to find out more about what VE Day is all about and hear about his dad’s role in the Royal Air Force during World War Two.

11.00am – Two Minute Silence
The official VE Day commemorations will begin with a national moment of remembrance and a two minute silence from UK homes to remember and thank those who fought for our freedom.
11.15am – Royal British Legion VE Day Livestream
Grab a cup of tea and join in the Royal British Legion’s 80-minute stream as it brings the World War Two generation together with today’s generation to chat about their shared experiences. There’ll bestories and memories from those who served and sacrificed during the Second World War, as well as recognising the difficulties people are experiencing today. To join the livestream click >>HEREHEREThe village poster produced by The Framebreakers
9.00pm VE Day Singalong
Ruddingtonians are invited to join the UK-wide rendition of Dame Vera Lynn’s ‘We’ll Meet Again’ to mark the 75th anniversary of VE Day – which will be shown on BBC One. If you need to practice in advance, you can try singing along with Dame Vera herself from 1943 below:

Happy VE Day 75th Anniversary Ruddington!