Sheffield’s Lord Mayor speaks to the city with a moving VE Day address from his home – watch the video here
and live on Freeview channel 276
But in 2020, as the city – and the world – fights another battle against the coronavirus pandemic, circumstances mean the landmark date must be observed very differently.
So instead of speaking at the Cenotaph in Barker’s Pool wearing full ceremonial regalia, surrounded by veterans and respectful onlookers, the Lord Mayor Coun Tony Downing has instead recorded a speech on video in his back garden – but the sentiment within his words is no less affecting.
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Hide Ad“Let us remember those who selflessly gave their lives at home and abroad, whose sacrifices enabled us to enjoy the peace and freedom we have today,” says Coun Downing, who titled his speech ‘Tribute to the Millions’.
“Let us remember those who came home wounded, physically and mentally, and the friends and family who cared for them.
“Let us remember those who returned to restore their relationships and build their working lives after years of dreadful conflict and turmoil. Let us remember the families that lost husbands, wives, sons, daughters and sweethearts.
“Let us remember the servicemen, merchant seamen, miners, Women of Steel, brave civilians and others from Commonwealth and Allied countries who fought, suffered and died during several years of war.
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Hide Ad“Let us remember those with reserved occupations who kept us safe on the Home Front – the doctors and nurses who cared for the wounded, the women and men who toiled in the fields, those who worked in the factories, who all played such a vital role in the war effort.”
Victory in Europe Day is held to celebrate the end of the war in Europe on May 8, 1945.
Sheffield Council is urging city residents to ‘stay safe’ and to continue to follow social distancing guidelines while paying their respects.
The Union Flag will be flown in Sheffield from the Cenotaph until Sunday.