On 7 May 1945, Germany signed a document of formal surrender to the Allies, meaning that after almost six years, the Second World War in Europe had finally come to an end. War brought death and suffering to millions of people across the world. In Britain, towns and cities were destroyed due to bombing raids by the German Luftwaffe. Food was rationed and children were evacuated to the country. Families did not know when, or even if, they would be reunited with their loved ones.
The Allied nations had been preparing for the fall of Berlin prior to the completion of surrender and so, official plans were put in place ready to mark the celebrations. An announcement of victory was broadcast to the British people via radio on 7 May and the following day was declared a national holiday, known as Victory in Europe Day or VE Day.
Across Greater Manchester, thousands of people joined together on 8 May to celebrate the news. Streets parties took place for adults and children, houses and buildings were decorated with patriotic Union Jack flags and bunting. Pubs were flooded with people and crowds gathered to dance and sing songs such as Vera Lynn’s ‘White Cliffs of Dover’ and ‘We’ll Meet Again’. Newspapers reported that vital wartime equipment was used across the region to commemorate the day; an ‘all-clear’ was sounded on sirens to mark the end of the national holiday and active searchlights were used in Bolton to form a Victory V in the sky.
Alongside these celebrations, formal events were also organised. According to a Manchester Guardian article from 1945, official proceedings in the city began at 3pm with a radio broadcast from Prime Minister Winston Churchill which was relayed by loud speaker in Albert Square. In his speech, Churchill addressed the nation and acknowledged that whilst VE Day was certainly a time for jubilation, preparations must begin for recovery. This was followed by a civic ceremony led by the Lord Mayor Alderman W.P. Jackson and flags of the Allied nations were raised to symbolise unity and collective victory.
The civic celebrations did not stop there. As part of the national arrangements, King George VI had requested the Sunday following VE Day to be one of thanks-giving and remembrance. Therefore, a victory parade was organised to take place in the city to commemorate Manchester’s war effort. The Armed Forces, Civil Defence, Police, Fire-guard Services, Women’s Land Army, arms workers and voluntary organisations, marched in procession to the Cathedral where a thanks-giving service took place.
However, whilst there was a clear feeling of joy and relief that war in Europe was over, it must not be forgotten that the fighting continued in the Pacific against Japan. Total victory for the Allies would not be claimed until 15 August 1945, known as Victory over Japan Day or VJ Day.
