The village currently has plans for VE Day 80th celebrations, according to the Parish Councils Agenda dated 17 March 2025.
EDIT: 18 March 2025 – I believe the village needs volunteers for this function to materialise according to a resident who attended the SPC meeting on the 17 March 2025.
New grants scheme for military commemorations
South Kesteven District Council is offering grants for community groups organising commemorations on or around the summer’s 80th anniversaries of Victory in Europe and Victory in Japan.
The new Commemorative Events Scheme Fund offers grants of up to £2,000 to fund events including street parties and beacon lightings.
It supports May’s national programme to commemorate the cessation of WWII hostilities in Europe in May 1945, with a website suggesting ways for communities to participate: www.ve80.com
Events in August for the commemoration of Victory in Japan Day (August 15) will also be eligible.
Events must take place within one week of either VE Day (before or after 8th May 2025) or VJ Day (before or after 15th August 2025).
Cllr Phil Dilks, SKDC Cabinet Member for Armed Forces, said: “These are incredibly important anniversaries for us all to mark and remember their significance for our peace and freedom. I am delighted that we can support communities to stage their own events.” new scheme is a time-limited pot of funding and grants which will be awarded on a first come, first served basis with early application advised to avoid disappointment.
Whilst applications for grants up to a maximum of £2,000 are accepted, awards of up to £1,000 per event will be viewed favourably.
The fund will close for applications for VE Day Events on 14th April 2025 and 21st July for VJ Day Events.
Application forms from communityengagement@southkesteven.gov.uk
Extract below is from the VE Day 80 website.
On 8 May 2025, we mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day, our nation will unite to celebrate 80 years of peace since the end of World War II in Europe. VE Day 80 is not only a tribute to those who fought for freedom but also a powerful reminder of the resilience and unity that have defined our country ever since.
At 9:30pm, beacons and Lamp Lights of Peace will shine across the United Kingdom, Channel Islands, Isle of Man, and UK Overseas Territories—symbolising the enduring strength of our communities. From city squares to village greens, we will stand together in gratitude, honouring the sacrifices that secured our freedom.
We encourage everyone to take part—raise the VE Day flag at 9am, gather in streets, gardens, town halls, clubs and pubs. Let this be a day of joy, reflection, and celebration. As part of the Commonwealth’s 2.4 billion people, we reaffirm our commitment to peace, ensuring future generations understand and cherish its value.
Together, we honour the past and celebrate a future built on unity, hope, and peace.
