Brighton marks 80th VE Day anniversary with tribute to unsung heroes

Brighton & Hove commemorated the 80th anniversary of VE Day on Thursday 8th of Ma evening with a solemn beacon lighting ceremony at the Peace Statue on Kingsway. The event, attended by local dignitaries, veterans, and community members, paid special tribute this year to fishermen and land army workers who supported the nation during World War II.

The ceremony opened with a parade by the Brighton & Hove cadet forces, followed by a welcome prayer led by Reverend David Hazell of St Helen’s and St Richard’s Church.
Reverend Hazell reflected on King George VI’s wartime address, stating, “he had no need to underscore the cost and the burden of war, because everyone listening to the broadcast has been touched by the war's horror.”