We want you!

That is the message to Hampshire veterans of the armed forces from the Royal British Legion (RBL) ahead of a special VE Day event this year.

Hampshire’s branch has teamed up with Southampton City Council to stage a massive 1940s-themed party and is looking to recruit up to 300 veterans for the occasion.

Anyone who served in the armed forces during World War Two or who lived through the Blitz in Southampton in November and December 1940 is welcome to attend the bash in Guildhall Square on May 9.

John Smith, chairman of the Hampshire branch, said: “The Legion nationally is running a series of events in London to mark the 70th anniversary of VE Day and it is encouraging the county branches to stage their own activities.

“We sat down and thought about how we might do that and thought a big street party would be perfect. A lot of the people who served in the Second World War or lived through the Blitz in Southampton are in their 80s and 90s now, so this could be the last chance they get to enjoy such an occasion.”

John has pulled together a nine-strong team to organise the event, writing to 40 businesses, charities, care homes and other organisations for help finding people who experienced the war.

Daily Echo:

A VE Day celebration in Southampton in 1945

Organisations are asked to identify up to eight men or women who lived through the war, arrange their transportation to and from the event and provide a party pack of food and drink for them. 

It comes after some residents criticised the city council last year for not doing enough to commemorate the 70th anniversary of D-Day.

But John said the council was extremely keen to support the RBL and had been offering all help possible to make sure the event runs smoothly.

Daily Echo:

Southampton during the Blitz

And Cllr Satvir Kaur, Cabinet member for communities, said the council was delighted to team up with the legion.

She said: “The city has a rich history when it comes to the Second World War and it is really important for us and our communities to be able to celebrate this.

"If anyone else has any ideas,do get in touch.I am more than happy to have a conversation about what we can do to help.”

Entertainment will come from a big band, while singers in period costume will be belting out 1940s classics.

  • The RBL is appealing for financial help to provide extra facilities. Call 01794 323487 or email jshantsrbl@hotmail.com.