Brixham to host 40 remembrance events for 80th anniversary

Brixham is set to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War in Europe and honour the memory of those who lost their lives with over 40 free public events.

This occasion, supported by the Brixham Lottery, will see the town transform into a hub of activity from Wednesday, May 7 to Sunday, May 11.

Eighty years ago, on Thursday, May 8, the nation came together to celebrate the end of the Second World War in Europe, which had begun in 1939.

Together, communities across the country mourned those we had lost and expressed gratitude to those who fought for our freedom. For many it was, and remains, an opportunity to look toward to the future with hope.

Throughout the week, Brixham residents and visitors alike will gather to remember the sacrifices made by members of the armed forces and the merchant navy, as well as the local heroes and heroines who either gave their lives or returned home bearing the physical and emotional scars of war.

The commemoration will also honour the vital contributions of the men and women who worked on the home front, including those in factories, mines, shipyards, and farms — such as members of the Women’s Land Army and Women’s Timber Corps.

Special recognition will also be given to the ARP wardens, police officers, doctors, nurses, firefighters, local defence volunteers and others who bravely carried out their duties during those difficult, frightening, and uncertain times.

To mark the occasion, Brixham Future community interest company, a not-for-profit organisation that addresses local issues, is collaborating with the town’s local voluntary sector to deliver over 40 free public events.

This follows their successful coordination of a similar number of events in June 2024, which honoured the 80th anniversary of D-Day with activities including exhibitions, concerts, church services, and historical displays.

The community will come together for a parade, a theatre musical, a concert, a special museum exhibition, displays, a dinner and dancing, a brass band, singing, and much more.

A spokesperson for Brixham Future CIC said: “We are committed to delivering these quick win and low-cost events that enhance our town, highlighting our cultural heritage for both residents and visitors to enjoy. 

“The basic idea is that by enhancing Brixham’s culture offer from its rich history, we boost our community. The events and activities will not only commemorate the enormous sacrifices made at home and abroad, but also link joyously to celebrating, as people did 80 years ago, with the arrival of peace in Europe.”

The current timetable of events is as follows:

Thursday, May 8

9.00am — unveiling of plaque to ‘P’ Men at Breakwater

10.00am – Local Heroes & Heroines Unveiling Ceremony, Churchill Gardens, Berry Head Road

10.45am – Victory Parade to Brixham War Memorial

11.00am – Wreath Laying Service at War Memorial

12.00am – Victory Parade marches to Fore Street

12.30am– Scottish Pipers in Fore Street

1.00pm - 4:00am– Victory Street Party in Fore Street

Friday, May 9

10:30am — 1940s Walk assembles at Coaching Inn, Fore Street

Further event details will be released in March. In the meantime, organisers are encouraging local residents to contribute to the occasion by planning their own celebrations, such as street parties, school activities, or decorating homes and businesses with bunting to contribute to the occasion. You can contact John Brennan, chair of Brixham Future CIC, for more information at 01803 852270.