Macclesfield celebrates VE Day anniversary and remembers those who made the ultimate sacrifice
Eighty years ago today, the people of Macclesfield celebrated the end of the Second World War in Europe.
To mark the anniversary of VE Day, a modest crowd gathered in Market Place this morning (May 8) to pay their respects to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
The service began at 9am with the Mayor of Macclesfield, councillor Sandy Livingstone, reading the proclamation.
He said: "80 years ago today the United Kingdom and its allies from around the globe celebrated VE Day – the end of the war in Europe.
"Today as we come together to commemorate what came to be known as VE Day our thoughts turn to thanksgiving and remembrance of those millions that gave so much to achieve the freedom we all enjoy today.
"We remember those we lost, those who were wounded or scarred, those whose lives were forever changed by war.
"Nobody was immune from the impact of that terrible conflict.
"Let us pause to remember their sacrifice."
Those in attendance, including veterans and MP Tim Roca, then bowed their heads as the Last Post rang through the streets of Silktown.
Allan Williams, chair of the Macclesfield branch of the Royal British Legion, then took to the stage, first reading a stanza from For the Fallen, a poem by Laurence Binyon.
"They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old," said Mr Williams.
"Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
"At the going down of the sun and in the morning
"We will remember them."
Mr Williams continued, reading an article published in the Macclesfield Times and Observer on May 10, 1945.
He said: "With church bells ringing and flags and bunting streaming from houses in every street and from public buildings, Macclesfield greeted VE Day, Tuesday 8th May, with eager spontaneous joy and thankful hearts.
"The Union Jack was hoisted with pride and triumph on the Town Hall's flag pole and there was a memorable and impressive ceremony in Market Place at 3pm when Mr Churchill's speech was relayed, followed by a message from the Mayor to the people of Macclesfield.
"The heavy rain which had fallen all morning had not abated entirely, but despite this there was a crowd of several hundred people.
"They were happy and smiling, for, dark and lowering though the rain clouds were, in the hearts of the people was the sunshine of victory and thanksgiving."
The service was brought to an end with a performance by Sacha Sloan.
Tonight, a beacon will be lit next to White Nancy in celebration of the 'light of peace'.
Members of the public are invited to gather in Market Place in Bollington to watch from a safe distance.
Elsewhere, several businesses are celebrating in their own way, such as The Old Millstone pub, who are putting on a buffet and a party.
Meanwhile, Panadero Lounge will be offering a free soup and roll to all veterans and currently serving military personnel.
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