THE Royal British Legion is encouraging Oxfordshire residents to join next month’s national celebrations of the 70th anniversary of VE Day.

Victory in Europe Day marks the day in 1945 when the Nazis surrendered and the Allies were able to proclaim victory in the Second World War.

On May 8 1945, Oxfordshire was awash with impromptu street parties and celebrations to mark the occasion after the war’s end was announced.

Michael Siggery, 80, took part in Risinghurst street party celebrations as a 10-year-old boy.

He said: “We were all assembled on the estate – everyone had street parties and there were bonfires afterwards.

“It was very joyous and happy – there was a chap stood outside the Ampleforth Arms pub with his drum playing away.”

The retired St John’s College bar manager, who now lives in Cowley, said he wants to see similar celebrations this year.

He said: “I think it’s something to celebrate – to remember those who gave their lives and fought for us. I shall go along with whatever celebrations take place this year and I would like to raise my right arm with a pint in it.”

County RBL chairman Jim Lewendon encouraged people to take it upon themselves to stage events.

He said: “We are hoping to organise a special afternoon on the day but we have only got the Littlemore and Marston branches left.

“So far there is nothing planned and I’m trying to encourage some events. I do think the days of big parades are over – there are hardly any of us left – but the day should definitely be celebrated.

“I’m hoping young people will get involved and lots of smaller events and parties will be put on across the county.”

The Royal British Legion has suggested a number of ways communities can get involved in honouring the VE Day anniversary.

Organising a 1940s tea dance with bunting and vintage dress, and dinner parties made with ration recipes as well as wartime singalongs are just some of the ways people can mark the occasion.

Mark Collins, the RBL’s area manager for the South East Midlands, said: “We are honoured to play our part in helping the nation mark 70 years since the end of the Second World War in Europe.

“The commemoration of this conflict, still in living memory, gives us the opportunity to salute the Second World War generation.

“We hope that all communities will use the VE Day 70 commemorations to thank them and celebrate the role they played in our nation’s history.”

What are your memories of VE Day down the years?

How are you going to celebrate the 70th anniversary next month?

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