Northampton to join 200-beacon event to mark VE Day anniversary

The event is being held on the evening of Friday, May 8.

A special gas-fuelled beacon was produced for the occasion and has a unique burner head in the shape of a V for victory.

More than 200 beacons will be lit at 9.32pm throughout the United Kingdom, Channel Islands and Isle of Man, following the lighting of the principal beacon outside Windsor Castle by The Queen.

In Northampton the beacon will be lit by Councillor Joan Kirkbride, chairman of Northamptonshire County Council. The beacon will be on the green outside St Peter’s Church, Black Lion Hill, Northampton.

Bruno Peek, Pageantmaster of the VE Day 70th Anniversary Beacons said: “VE Day on the 8 May represents a further important milestone in the history of our country. It was on this day, 70 years ago, that peace brought an end to nearly six years of war across Europe. We must not let this day pass without reflecting on the sacrifice, courage and determination of the people who saw us through this dark period.

“It is therefore fitting that we should celebrate with the veterans and their families and commemorate this historic anniversary once more through the lighting of beacons on Friday 8 May this year.”