eightieth anniversary of VJ Day celebrated with beacon lighting ceremony – Newest Information – Information Updates

Published: Mon 18th August, 2025

Residents of Charnwood gathered in Queen’s Park in Loughborough on Friday, 15 August to mark the eightieth anniversary of Victory over Japan Day (VJ Day), commemorating the tip of the Second World War.

The occasion, hosted by Charnwood Borough Council, featured reside music, group stalls, and a poignant beacon lighting ceremony.

The beacon was lit by Mel Gould, a former soldier and long-standing chairman of the Loughborough Carillon Tower and War Memorial Museum. Mr Gould served within the Royal Leicestershire Regiment and the Royal Anglian Regiment for 12 years, adopted by 27 years with the Territorial Army.

Mr Gould mentioned: “It was an amazing pleasure to gentle the beacon for VJ Day and honour those that served and who misplaced their lives within the Second World War and different conflicts.

“As a veteran, I feel a deep personal connection to their legacy. This ceremony reminds us that peace was hard-won, and it’s our duty to remember those who gave everything for it.”

The night started with music and reflections from veterans and native dignitaries, culminating in a second of silence and the lighting of the beacon at 8.30pm. The occasion was a part of a nationwide tribute, with beacons lit throughout the UK to honour the legacy of those that fought within the Second World War.

The Mayor of Charnwood, Councillor David Northage, attended the ceremony with the Mayoress Jenny Northage.

The Mayor mentioned: “This was a deeply transferring night for our group. VJ Day reminds us of the braveness, resilience, and sacrifice of those that served all through and within the closing chapter of the Second World War.

“Lighting the beacon in Queen’s Park was a powerful symbol of remembrance and unity, and I’m proud that Charnwood came together to honour this historic milestone.”

The occasion was part-funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and supported by native organisations together with the Royal British Legion, Sea Cadets, and Loughborough Library Local Studies.

Photos from the VJ Day occasion could be discovered at www.charnwood.gov.uk/VJDay.

VJ Day occasions passed off in villages and cities all through the borough, together with Shepshed, Syston, Thurmaston and Woodhouse Eaves.

Earlier within the day, the Mayor of Charnwood attended a flag-raising ceremony at Charnwood Borough Council’s places of work on Southfield Road and a parade and repair on the Market Place in Shepshed. Both have been attended by native dignitaries and veterans.

To keep up to date on this and different Council occasions, subscribe to e-mail alerts at www.charnwood.gov.uk/alerts or comply with @CharnwoodBC on social media.