People are invited to attend a special VJ Day Service in Southport to commemorate 80 years since the end of World War II.
The VJ80 Service will take place at the War Memorial on Lord Street in Southport from 11am this Friday (15th August 2025).
The event is organised by the Southport Branch of the Royal British Legion.
Victory over Japan (VJ Day 80) will recognise the surrender by Japan in May 1945, three months after Nazi Germany, which signalled an end to the six year global conflict.
Southport Royal British Legion Chair Royston Smith Straney said: “All members of the Armed Forces and Veterans wishing to take part in the VJ Day 80 Service in Southport are asked to form up at 10.40am at the South Colonnade.
“Medals, berets and regimental blazers are encouraged.
“Afterwards, tea and coffee will be served from the Royal British Legion Gazebo situated on the Colonnade, to raise funds for the Royal British Legion Hub on Wesley Street in Southport town centre.
“We warmly invite all members of the public to join us for this important occasion.”
A series of VJ80 events will also be taking place across the UK this Friday.
The military contribution to the commemorations will include:
- Flypasts, musicians and a guard of honour at the Royal British Legion’s national commemorative event at the National Memorial Arboretum
- A sunset ceremony and lightshow recognising the contribution of the Commonwealth to the Second World War on the eve of VJ Day
- Performances by military bagpipers at dawn on VJ Day to mark 80 years since peace was restored to the Far East
- A service of remembrance on board the flight deck of aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales, as the UK Carrier Strike Group continues its deployment to the Indo-Pacific
Defence Secretary John Healey MP said: “The bravery and sacrifice of the United Kingdom and Commonwealth Armed Forces during the Second World War continue to inspire us today.
“The nation will come together on the 80th anniversary of VJ Day to thank those who served and remember those who died.
“Our UK Armed Forces today continue the legacy of the Greatest Generation – protecting the peace they secured through their courage and commitment across the world.”
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