THE KIDDERMINSTER community came together to celebrate the 80th anniversary of VE Day last Thursday.
The celebration, held outside St Mary and All Saints Church, was described by Kidderminster Town Council as ‘a truly special and uplifting occasion’.
Picture by Miriam Cunliffe. s
“The event was very well-attended and the atmosphere was filled with pride, reflection, and genuine community spirit.
“Attendees enjoyed a thoughtful and engaging evening that brought together music, tributes, and moments of remembrance.”
Picture by Miriam Cunliffe. s
Heartfelt tribute
The heartfelt tribute to those who served and made the ultimate sacrifice included live performances and readings, a moving parade and line-up featuring veterans’ associations, ex-service groups, cadets, and local youth organisations and a beacon lighting.
Picture by Miriam Cunliffe. s
Other highlights included bellringing by St Mary’s, Kidderminster Bell Ringers, St Catherine’s CE School Choir performance, wartime music from The Jukebox Jems Duo, bagpipes by Craig Swarbrick ‘The Celtic piper’, readings from the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Worcestershire Paul West, Priest of St Mary and All Saint’s Church – Hayward Osborne.
Picture by Miriam Cunliffe. s
Wyre Forest District Council’s Armed Forces Champion – Coun Kevin Gale – also attended and there was a proclamation by the Kidderminster Town Crier and a bugle tribute and tribute reading the Mayor of Kidderminster, Coun George Connolly.
The church grounds provided the perfect backdrop as the evening served as a powerful reminder of shared history and the importance of coming together as a community to honour it.
Picture by Miriam Cunliffe. s
The spokesperson added: “We would like to thank everyone who took part and those who came along to show their support – your presence helped make the event a fitting and memorable celebration of VE Day.
“Thank you to Carrigan Events for providing sound and lighting and to Miriam Cunliffe Photography for providing images of the evening.”
Picture by Miriam Cunliffe. s
Wyre Forest District Council and Morrisons Kidderminster’s community champion were also thanked for their support and sponsorship of the event.
