Events have been planned by Runnymede Borough Council to honour 80 years since the end of the Second World War in Europe.
The Mayor of Runnymede, Cllr Elaine Gill, is launching the celebrations with a special art competition, open to schools and care homes across the Borough.
The theme - ‘harmony and friendship amongst nations’ - encourages participants to express how countries can unite in peace.
Applicants are asked to get creative as submissions can take any form, from paintings and sculptures to collages or even garden displays.
There are four categories to enter:
- Infants
- Juniors
- Seniors
- Care Homes
Winners in each category will receive a £150 prize, a commemorative plaque, and a visit from the Mayor and mayors from our twin towns in Germany and France.
The Mayor of Runnymede said:
VE Day is a moment for us to reflect on history, honour the sacrifices of those who came before us and be glad that in the intervening decades our former foes have now become strong friends
Through this competition and our wider programme of events, we hope to bring our community together with international friends in a meaningful way and ensure that those friendships last well into the future
The competition closes on 4 April 2025.
To enter send a photo of your creation to the.mayor@runnymede.gov.uk. Include your category, name of your school or care home, contact number and email address.
A commemorative programme
The art competition is only the beginning. The Council will host a series of events in May 2025 to mark the anniversary and strengthen international friendships. Notably, representatives from Runnymede’s twin towns Bergisch Gladbach in Germany and Joinville-le-Pont in France will visit the Borough to take part in commemorations. Key events include:
- A ‘Council to Council’ event at the Civic Centre, featuring an online Q&A with students from all three countries.
- A flag-raising ceremony to mark VE Day 80.
- A special beacon lighting event organised by the Chertsey Society.
- Visits to local schools by the Mayor and international guests.
- A Civic Children's Service, bringing younger generations together in remembrance.
- Local Heroes: Stories of the Second World War exhibition is being held at Chertsey Museum.
With the Mayor leading these commemorations, the Council hopes to encourage meaningful reflection on the past while promoting continued peace and friendship between nations.
Further details on the events will be shared soon.
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