Stone Town Council is inviting the community to join a series of events this week to mark 80 years since Victory over Japan (VJ) Day and the end of the Second World War.
On Friday 15th August, a short ceremony will take place at the top of the High Street at 6:00 pm. The Stone Scout and Guide Band will perform ahead of the VJ Day flag being raised at the town’s flagpole. The event is open to all and will be an opportunity to remember those who served and lived through the conflict, and to celebrate the peace that followed.
As part of the commemorations, the Stone Heritage Centre will host a special VJ Day exhibition. Opening hours will be extended from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm on Friday 15th August to coincide with the ceremony. The exhibition will feature a display of historic artefacts and memorabilia telling the story of VJ Day and its impact.
Admission is free, with no booking required. For those who can’t make the opening day, the display will run until Saturday 30th August during the centre’s usual hours of 11:00 am to 4:00 pm, Tuesday to Saturday.
The anniversary programme continues on Sunday 17th August with a Brass Band Concert and Cream Tea Afternoon in Stonefield Park from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm. The afternoon will include a short service remembering those who served in the Far East, including the Burma Star Association, and marking the formal end of the war.
Councillor Jill Hood, Chairman of the Council’s Tourism and Town Promotion Sub-Committee, said:
“We hope that you will join us at these events which offer a chance to reflect, remember, and learn about an important chapter in our history.”
These commemorations provide not only an opportunity to look back, but also a reminder of the importance of peace and the resilience of communities during times of hardship. Whether you attend the formal ceremony, spend time exploring the exhibition, or enjoy the music and cream tea in the park, all are welcome to be part of remembering our shared history.
