Commemorating the 70th anniversary of VE Day
A wreath-laying ceremony took place in Kirkwall today to commemorate the 70th anniversary of VE Day.
Following a national two-minute silence at 3pm, marking the moment Winston Churchill broadcast his speech formally announcing the end of the war, the wreath-laying ceremony took place at the Kirkwall War Memorial, outside St Magnus Cathedral.
At 9.30pm, a beacon will be lit being lit at the Peedie Sea, Kirkwall – one of a chain of 100 beacons across the UK.
Orkney’s Lord-Lieutenant Bill Spence said: “VE Day, on May 8, 2015, represents an important milestone in the history of our country and indeed the world. It was that day, 70 years ago, that peace broke out and brought an end to nearly six years of war across Europe.
“We cannot let this day pass without reflecting on the sacrifice and sheer determination of the people who saw us through this dark period, so VE Day this year will be a celebration of peace – a time to remember and pay tribute to all those who so bravely played their part in achieving the peace we all enjoy today.”