Harrogate is preparing to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day.
Thursday 8th May will mark 80 years since the Second World War came to an end in Europe.
In response to the gap created by the Unitary Authority – and before the new Harrogate Town Council is introduced – groups in Harrogate have come together to create a wider commemorative plan for the North Yorkshire town.
Commemorative acts will include artwork, installations and decorative lighting.
Harrogate BID is working alongside the Charter Mayor Cllr Chris Aldred, Charter Trustees for Harrogate, The Royal British Legion, St Peter’s Church, Harrogate Army Foundation College, the Harrogate Band and the Air and Sea Cadets to bring the plan to fruition.
Matthew Chapman, Chief Executive at Harrogate BID, said:
“Working alongside local groups and organisations, we are honoured to bring these plans to life to mark such an historic milestone.
“VE Day is an important time for remembrance and reflection across the country, so we’re proud to deliver this series of installations.
“I would like to thank all of the partners involved in the organisation of this commemorative effort for our town.”
Red, white and blue bunting will line the town centre streets, while the creative lighting installed by Harrogate BID will changeover to match these colours.
A projection on the Victoria Shopping Centre, fully funded by Harrogate BID, will also add to the VE Day tributes in the town centre.
A specially commissioned artwork installation, created by local artist Sarah Marsh, will be placed on the Cenotaph area to mark the milestone.
Meanwhile, informative boards sharing facts and details on how VE Day was celebrated in Harrogate will be placed in the same location to help both local people and residents to learn about town’s heritage and experiences during the war.
Harrogate BID and partners are also encouraging the local business to get involved with VE Day-themed window decorations and displays.
Chris Aldred, the Charter Mayor of Harrogate, said:
“Unfortunately VE Day falls during a 10 day period when Harrogate will not officially have a Mayor or any Civic representation, as the Charter Trustees legally have to disband 5 days after the Town Council Election on May 1st and the first Town Council meeting, at which the new Mayor will be appointed is scheduled for May 14th.
“So, I am extremely grateful that Harrogate BID has stepped forward to organise this Commemoration.
"It’s very important that Harrogate residents and business have the opportunity to fully participate in this national event and we are fortunate to have the expertise of the BID staff to pull this together for the town. I’m sure it will be brilliant!”
A contained commemoration will be held around the Cenotaph area from 6pm on the evening of May 8th to mark the occasion.
More information can be found by emailing the Harrogate BID team on info@harrogatebid.co.uk
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