Press Release

8 May 2025

Flag raised to honour VE Day 80

Fareham Borough Council has marked the 80th anniversary of VE Day (Victory in Europe Day) by flying a bespoke VE Day flag in West Street, Fareham.

On 8 May 1945, the Second World War came to an end in Europe, sparking celebrations across the nation. This year marks 80 years since Victory in Europe, and the Council has commemorated the occasion by raising the VE Day flag with representatives from the Armed Forces.

Commander Fraser Hunt from HMS Collingwood was accompanied by AB Louis Knight  and AB Liam Shrehorn who raised the VE Day flag in the company of the Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Fareham, Leader of Fareham Borough Council, Cllr Simon Martin and Chief Executive Officer Andrew Wannell.

Cdr Hunt said: “We are delighted to be here today, representing HMS Collingwood and acknowledging our close affiliation with Fareham Borough. Today we remember the bravery of all those who gave their lives for our freedom. We must never forget their sacrifice and valour.”

The Mayor of Fareham, Cllr Pal Hayre, said: "It was an honour to be present for the raising of the VE Day 80 flag. This poignant anniversary is a time to reflect on the bravery of those that served during the war, and honour those who paid the ultimate sacrifice to achieve peace in Europe.”

Today sees the conclusion of four days of official celebrations, with a service at Westminster Abbey and a concert at the historic Horseguards Parade. Details of local events taking place can be found at the official VE Day 80 website: https://ve-vjday80.gov.uk/events/. 

ENDS

Notes to Editor:

The present HMS COLLINGWOOD (CWD) was commissioned in early 1940; the site is approximately 74 Hectares in size. CWD has grown over the past ten to fifteen years as other RN establishments have closed. This led to the formation of the Maritime Warfare School in 2006 which incorporates both warfare and engineering training. CWD provides Executive, Duty of Care and facilities management functions for trainees on Phase 2 and Phase 3 courses for ratings and officers, as well as continued professional development for all ranks and rates. On average, the establishment delivers nearly 400,000 manned training days to approximately 33,000 personnel per annum.

For further information contact:

Customer Enquiries

Tel: 01329 236100
Email: customerservicecentre@fareham.gov.uk

Media Enquiries

The Communications Team
Tel: 01329 824310
Email: publicity@fareham.gov.uk
Fax: 01329 550576

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