Special celebrations across the nation were taking place on Thursday 8th May 2025. The 80th anniversary of VE Day. Weldon Parish Council joined forces with the Weldon branch of the RBL (Royal British Legion) to bring a special village event together for all the parish and the community.
The day started on the village green with union flags decorating the hedges and marquees being erected. Both Weldon Village Academy and Weldon Youth Group had produced some fantastic art work in the shape of bunting which adorned the tea tent and surrounding boundary.
The safety of the road closure made the set up for the day easier, quicker and most importantly, safer. The weather started dull and a little chilly but that didn’t hinder things at all. We were hoping that the sun was going to shine down on everyone but as the day went along, the clouds dominated the sky.
The day progressed with entertainment from the very popular duo ‘Bread n Dripping’ and the Alison Regan Band keeping the crowd upbeat. Adults were joining in the singing with children dancing and laughing on the green.
It was lovely seeing the post box outside the newly opened One Stop Shop on the High Street yarn bombed once more with the very talented work done by a local resident, always puts a smile on folks faces.
Local caterers kept everyone fed. Pizzas, chips, burgers, hotdogs, doughnuts candy floss and ice creams and more were enjoyed by all, and the artisan bar offering local ales kept everyone’s thirst at bay.
St Mary’s church did an awesome job of keeping the teas and coffees flowing with very tasty scones, jams and clotted cream.
The local scout groups pitched their gazebo with many trying out their archery skills. The green was filling up nicely seeing lots of dog walkers out on the day too, and at one point the sun did put in an appearance.
Later towards the evening, WPC handed out union flags to wave in celebration as the RBL headed a marching parade. Starting at School Lane, marching up the Oundle Road then circling the War Memorial along Stamford Road and entering the village green again heading towards the Beacon which was lit by the late Corporal James Walters’ widow and daughter. A tribute was then read, a really moving moment on this monumental occasion.
The evening finally came to a close with everyone singing the National Anthem.
It was fantastic to see so many people turn out in support of this special event, times like these always seem to bring the community together, and from the lovely feedback and comments that was received on the day was gratefully and warmly received.
