Nantwich to mark VJ 80 Day with events on August 15

Cllr Groves and John Dwyer ready for VJ 80 Day in Nantwich

Nantwich is to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan Day next Friday August 15.

VJ 80 Day will be commemorated as it signifies the real end of the Second World War after Japan’s surrender on August 15, 1945.

Events and activities are planned across the UK and Commonwealth to honour the service and sacrifice of those who fought in the Far East and Pacific.

Nantwich will mark the occasion throughout the day, organised by Nantwich Town Council.

There will be entertainment provided during the day in the Town Square.

It is hoped there will be a ceremonial “flyover” from RAF Shawbury at around midday.

There will be a service in St Mary’s Church at 8pm, which will include speeches by the Town Mayor Cllr Mary Slinn and the President of Royal British Legion (Nantwich), John Dwyer.

There will be a short parade from Churchyardside to the War Memorial in the Town Square which will be followed by wreath-laying and a two-minute silence, and the Reveille.

Finally, there will be a Beacon Lighting on the Square.

Mr Dwyer and Cllr Peter Groves have been working with the Town Council to organise the commemoration and are hoping residents will turn out in force on the day.

Mr Dwyer, who’s father James fought with the 14th Army in Burma, said: “We have put in a request for a flyover from RAF Shawbury so hopefully this will happen.

“The 60 Squadron was based at Shawbury at the time of the Second World War, when they were a fixed wing squadron who flew out to support the war in Burma.

“I’m very grateful to Nantwich Town Council for supporting this event. I think people often forget or don’t realise that the war did not end on VE Day, only when Japan finally surrendered.”

Cllr Groves added: “I hope that the town rallies around this event and we get similar numbers to VE Day.

“We should celebrate the end of the Second World War and remember those troops who were still fighting in the Far East in 1945.”

The Royal British Legion will also be offering refreshments from 2pm in the St Mary’s Parish Rooms during the way, which all are welcome to.