Maldon District Council is inviting residents to take part in a 'Shared Moment of Celebration' in Promenade Park in May.

The event will mark the 80th Anniversary of VE Day on Thursday May 8, marking 80 years since the end of the war in Europe on May 8, 1945.

In partnership with Maldon Town Council, Best Bar None, Maldon Rotary Club, Maldon Youth Orchestra, local historian and broadcaster Stephen P Nunn, Historic Vehicle owners, and other organisations, Maldon District Council will mark the national celebration.

Cllr Kevin Lagan, Chairman of Maldon District Council, said, "We will be joining thousands of others wanting to remember and pay tribute to the brave men and women who took part in WWII, not only from our country, but other countries that fought side by side with us during the dreadful dark days of war.

"I hope our event will mark this anniversary in a very memorable way and will be an occasion not to be missed.

"I am very grateful to Stephen Nunn for providing the local historical context and the Mayor of Maldon, Cllr Andrew Lay and Maldon Town Council, for sponsoring the film screening, Maldon Rotary Club, together with Best Bar None, and for the support from the Governments UK Shared Prosperity Fund, all of whom have made this event possible.

"I hope as many residents will join us to mark this special anniversary."

VE Day 80th Anniversary Programme:

6.30 – 7.00pm – Maldon Youth Orchestra

7.30pm Outdoor Cinema: 'A Royal Night Out' (12A)

9.05pm – Welcome

9.10pm - 'Celebrating VE Day: 80 years on' by Stephen P Nunn, local historian and broadcaster.

9.20pm – Cllr Kevin Lagan, Chairman of Maldon District Council reads 'The Tribute' 

9.25pm - Kohima epitaph

9.30pm - Lighting of the VE Day bonfire

               Hymn - 'I Vow to Thee My Country'

The free screening of the film 'A Royal Night Out' is inspired by true events. The charming romantic comedy recounts the glorious celebration of the end of World War II in Europe and the extraordinary evening when a young Princess Elizabeth (Sarah Gadon) and her sister, Princess Margaret (Bel Powley), take to the streets of London for a whirlwind adventure filled with excitement, danger...and the flutters of first love.

Space is limited for those attending the film screening. You can book your tickets ahead of time here. Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs, blankets, picnic etc. Best Bar None will be open to purchase drinks and other food

The event has received £3,000 from the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.