Join the ‘Big Picnic for Hope’ to mark VE DAY in Sheffield

Sheffield Cathedral is joining with a number of the nation’s cathedrals and uniting this VE Day in a project to remember heroes past and present as part of the Big Picnic for Hope.
By Kate Mason
Published 5th May 2020, 17:13 BST
Updated 6th May 2020, 08:54 BST
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To mark the 75th anniversary of the end of the Second World War in Europe tomorrow – VE Day - cathedrals around the country had events planned to form part of the national celebrations.

These events would have brought together communities, friends and families in gatherings and street parties around the UK.

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However, with the COVID-19 pandemic, such gatherings are no longer possible.

Sheffield CathedralSheffield Cathedral
Sheffield Cathedral

The Big Picnic for Hope is an opportunity for households to be part of a virtual get together – instead of street parties, people can stay at home, picnic indoors or in their gardens, and join friends and families virtually.

A Big Picnic spokesman said: “With a rise in the number of people needing to access foodbanks throughout the country, and the future uncertain for many, the Big Picnic for Hope asks those who can afford it to donate towards providing another individual or family having food in their house today.”

In Sheffield, it will also be raising money for The Cathedral Archer Project, a Sheffield homelessness charity.

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Tim Renshaw, project chief executive, said: “The Big Picnic for Hope is a moment of hope and light in what is a bleak landscape.

“We are thrilled to be involved and to be working with Sheffield Cathedral.

“Such partnerships and support from the public helps us be one step closer to thinking about what the future might hold for us and the people we support.”

The Reverend Canon Keith Farrow, vice-dean and canon missioner at Sheffield Cathedral, said: “'We have all been inspired by the huge outpouring of neighbourliness, practical support and care for one another and been moved by the dedication of the NHS staff and so many other key workers in the community.

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“At the heart of the Big Picnic for Hope is a reflection that many people are particularly vulnerable at this time, so we invite you to support through this event the vital and continuing work of the Cathedral Archer Project.”

See bigpicnicforhope.com and to donate, visit justgiving.com/campaign/SheffCathbigpicnicforhope

Related topics:EuropeNHS