On May 8, 1945, our town had experienced six years of war. Many men in Watford went to fight and tragically never came home, with others returning injured and suffering from the effects of war. People in our town had their lives dramatically changed. Some had different jobs to support the war effort, food rationing had started and Watford saw the direct effects of bombing raids, notably on Sandringham Road where 37 people were tragically killed. People came together, supported one another and overcame an enormous challenge.

When Victory in Europe was declared on May 8, people celebrated, having suffered and sacrificed during six years of war. 10,000 people gathered in Cassiobury Park, bunting and flags adorned High Street and many people held street parties with their neighbours. People came together, as they had throughout the whole war, but this time to celebrate a return to peace and perhaps some kind of normality.

75 years on it is fitting that we are remembering VE Day while finding ourselves in another time of great adversity. We are all making sacrifices in our lives and some are tragically facing up to the unexpected loss of loved ones. However, the same community spirit and togetherness can be seen every day in our town. Those that are out delivering supplies to isolated neighbours, the thousands of people who have volunteered to do their bit for their community and those who are supporting our local hospital are all wonderful examples of Watford’s sense of community and show our determination to help one another when things are difficult.

We won’t be marking this important day as we may have originally planned. But we will be holding a virtual service at 2.50pm from Watford Council’s Facebook Page, to coincide with Winston Churchill’s broadcast to the nation in 1945 that war was over. I’ll be joined by the Lord Lieutenant of Hertfordshire, Watford’s MP and the Chairman of Watford Borough Council as we commemorate the day. I know many others may be toasting at home or holding a socially distanced event with their neighbours, covering their streets in bunting as people did 75 years ago.

During these tough times, I hope we can remember how VE Day showed that we can triumph over adversity. I know we will all come through this and be together once more.

  • Peter Taylor is Elected Mayor of Watford