Iconic Sheffield department store release VE Day remembrance video during coronavirus lockdown

Sheffield independent department store, Atkinsons, located on The Moor, has created a new video for customers, as a commemoration for VE Day – the 75th anniversary of when fighting against Nazi Germany during World War Two ended.

The video, posted to Facebook pays tribute to the VE day spirit and support customers have shown to the independent over the years – particularly as they deal with the economic impact of the coronavirus crisis.

In a post, the retailer said: “Looking back, but more importantly, looking forward.

“Thank you for all your continued support.”

The one-minute video features footage of Atkinsons D-Day celebrations last year with 1940s-style singers performing historic wartime songs such as ‘We’ll Meet Again’.

One user commented: “Well done Atkinsons, hope things soon get back to normal and you get all your customers back plus more.”

While another person replied to the post with: “Bless you all and we look forward to being with you whenever we are able.”

The retailer was forced to close its doors for the first time in its almost 150 year history, when Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced a nation-wide lockdown on March 23 to slow the spread of the coronavirus.

Even after Atkinsons’ premises were destroyed by a German aircraft during the blitz of 1940, the business continued to sell its wears by using a nearby church as a temporary base.