Borough council encourages local communities to celebrate VE and VJ Day with grants
Published: Friday, 14 March 2025
Oadby & Wigston Borough Council (OWBC) is inviting local communities to apply for grants of up to £100 to be used to celebrate the 80th anniversary of VE Day and VJ Day this summer.
Residents and community organisations such as schools, charities and clubs can apply for a grant which can be used to fund VE or VJ Day-related activities.
Activities can include celebrations such as street parties and tea parties, as well as events for reflection and education.
A funding pot of £1,800, generously donated to the council by Broad Oak Group, is to be split across events in Oadby, Wigston and South Wigston.
VE Day falls on Thursday 8 May, and marks the end of the Second World War in Europe. This was ahead of the end of the war in Japan, VJ Day, which will be celebrated on Friday 15 August.
To be eligible for a grant an event must be community-based, not a private function or run by a business.
Full details of eligibility criteria and how to apply can be found at: www.oadby-wigston.gov.uk/VEVJDay
Councillor Bill Boulter, Chair of OWBC’s Armed Forces Working Group, said: “This is a wonderful opportunity for our community to come together and commemorate the 80th anniversaries of VE and VJ Day in a meaningful way.
“Whether it’s a street party or a moment of reflection, these activities will help to keep the legacy of VE and VJ Day alive for future generations – something which is vitally important as World War II moves further from living memory.
“I really encourage everyone to get involved, and to honour and remember those who served and fought for the peace which the end of the war brought.”
A beacon lighting event to commemorate VE Day will also take place on Thursday 8 May in the outdoor amphitheatre at Brocks Hill Country Park, Oadby. The event is organised by OWBC with music from Wigston Band and Wigston Community Choir. All are welcome to attend, and more information on timings will follow closer to the time.