PREVIEW

Pictured: HMS Duncan Ships Company hanging up bunting.

The Royal Navy has hosted a spectacular street party to launch the nation’s celebrations for the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe – VE Day 80.

A party for local schoolchildren and cadets on board warship HMS Duncan at HM Naval Base Portsmouth on 4th April 2025 was held to encourage communities across the UK to gather for neighbourhood celebrations on 5 May.

The celebrations on HMS Duncan marked one month to go until the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War in Europe. The nation will come together next month to remember those who served and died during the Second World War and celebrate the peace and freedom secured by their sacrifice. Communities across the UK will host street parties, family barbecues, village fetes and neighbourhood picnics on Bank Holiday Monday (5 May).

The captain and commanding officer of HMS Duncan, Commander Dan Lee, said: “It’s been great fun to host a VE Day 80 street party on the flight deck today. The Armed Forces will be at the heart of the commemorations in May to help bring people together and give this historic event the celebration it deserves. “The Armed Forces are proud to keep alive the spirit of service and sacrifice of the Greatest Generation. In May we’ll remember those who died, thank those who served and recommit to defending the freedom they fought for.” The Royal Navy worked with the Together Coalition to host local schoolchildren and Royal Navy cadets for the street party on board HMS Duncan, a Type 45 destroyer. Together are working with the UK Government to involve communities across the country in celebrations for the 80th anniversary of VE Day.