EIGHTY years ago, on May 8, 1945, Prime Minister Winston Churchill addressed the nation to announce that the war in Europe had finally come to an end.

Victory in Europe Day - or VE Day - was a moment of immense relief and joy for millions across the UK and the Commonwealth.

After six long and brutal years of conflict, the guns fell silent, and peace returned to a continent that had seen unimaginable suffering. It was a victory paid for by great courage and even greater sacrifice.

This year, we mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day - a historic milestone and an opportunity to remember, reflect, and come together as communities across the country.

In Central Devon, we are doing just that, with a wonderful array of local events that capture the spirit of commemoration and celebration.

In Crediton, the day will begin with a poignant flag-raising ceremony at the war memorial at 9.30am on Thursday, May 8. Later, a sold-out cream tea at the Boniface Centre will feature live jazz, historical displays, and a new film produced by Crediton Museum about the town’s wartime experience.

The celebrations continue on Friday, May 9 with a family disco at Crediton United FC, and on Saturday, the “Very Vintage Picnic” in Newcombes Meadow promises a day of music, dance, crafts and family fun.

Sandford will host a special concert by the Crediton Town Band at the parish church, featuring wartime favourites on Thursday, May 8.

The commemorations will culminate on Saturday with a 1940s-themed cream tea, complete with fresh scones and a prize for the best-dressed attendee in wartime attire.

In Coldridge, community spirit will shine at a beacon-lighting ceremony on Thursday, May 8.

The Coldridge Sunshine Singers will perform, and there will be a pasty supper to enjoy before the beacon is lit - echoing the beacons that were lit across Britain at the end of the war.

Poughill will be celebrating slightly earlier with a traditional VE Day street party on Monday, May 5. Villagers will bring and share 1940s-style party food, and a memorabilia display will help younger generations connect with the past.

In North Tawton, a morning of remembrance is planned on Thursday, May 8 with a flag-raising, a parade of poppy wreaths, and a musical tribute by the Okehampton Silver Band. On Saturday, May 10, there will be a coffee morning, wartime-themed refreshments, and a raffle.

Last but by no means least, Spreyton will host a special exhibition on the village’s wartime contributions, alongside schoolchildren singing period songs and a community barbecue, a beacon lit at 9.30pm.

These events are not just a chance to celebrate - they are a vital way to ensure that the stories, the sacrifices, and the lessons of the Second World War are never forgotten.

I encourage everyone to take part, whether by attending an event, sharing family memories, or simply taking a moment of quiet reflection.

As we mark 80 years of peace in Europe, let us honour those who gave so much, and cherish the freedoms they fought to secure.

Mel Stride

MP for Central Devon