🇬🇧 Event 2025

📸 VE Day 80th Anniversary – A Day to Remember in Morecambe

"A day of honour, unity, and remembrance — from proud salutes to the final sunset flame, we remembered their sacrifice and celebrated our freedom."

What a powerful day. A moment in time I’ll never forget.

Today, we came together in Morecambe to mark 80 years since Victory in Europe Day — a tribute not just to the end of World War II, but to every soul who served, sacrificed, and stood for peace. From the first step of the parade to the final lowering of the flag at sunset, it was a day filled with emotion, reflection, honour, and unity.

🔔 The Parade – Pride in Every Step

The day began with the veterans leading the parade through Morecambe, proudly marching side by side with standard bearers, cadets, and civic dignitaries. Flags flew high, berets were worn with pride, and medals glinted in the morning light. Among them was a true hero — a gentleman over 100 years old, a World War II veteran who served in the Royal Signals. His presence alone brought the weight of history to life for everyone watching.

🏛️ Reception at the Town Hall – A Community United

Inside Morecambe Town Hall, Union Jack bunting lined the room and tables were filled with decorations, tea, and a specially made VE Day cake — topped with berries to form the Union Flag. The local MP, flanked by Morecambe’s council team, cut the cake with a smile and a sense of shared pride. You could feel the respect in the air. Veterans and guests shared their stories — some with a laugh, some with a tear. It was about listening, remembering, and honouring every journey.

🎺 Brass Band & Remembrance – The Spirit of the 40s

As the afternoon rolled in, the Morecambe Brass Band Association filled the hall with 1940s classics, from Vera Lynn to Glenn Miller. It wasn’t just music — it was the sound of resilience, joy, and remembrance. People of all ages sang along, some waving flags, others wiping away a quiet tear.

Outside, during the national anthem, veterans raised their hands in salute. A moment of silence followed, and the stillness said more than words ever could. Then came the raising of the flag — a timeless symbol of freedom and unity.

🔥 Sunset Beacon Lighting – A Flame for the Fallen

As day turned to dusk, we gathered on the seafront. The sky turned a warm amber as one of our proud veterans stepped forward to light the VE80 beacon. A flame rising into the fading light — representing all those who never made it home. Behind him stood silhouettes of soldiers, representing World War II service men and women.

The silence was only broken by the wind and the soft sound of the sea. It was beautiful, raw, and humbling.

🇬🇧 A Closing Salute

The final act of the day was the lowering of the flag — a gentle yet powerful close to a deeply moving tribute. This wasn’t just a commemoration. It was a reminder that we owe so much to those who came before us. The freedom we enjoy today was fought for — and must never be forgotten.

📸 A Day in Pictures

I had the honour of capturing this event through my lens — moments frozen in time, from salutes and smiles to music and memories. These images aren’t just photographs — they’re living tributes. A mix of faces, ages, and stories, all united by one powerful message: We remember.

Thank you to everyone who took part — from the veterans to the brass band, the council team to the local schoolchildren, and everyone in between. Today was about remembrance, respect, and unity. And it was an honour to be part of it.

🕊️ Lest we forget.
With respect,
JT Snaps Photography

📅 VE Day 80 – 8 May 2025
📷 Drone & Ground Photography | Storytelling Through Images