This year marks 80 years since the end of the Second World War; 80 years since the momentous victory in Europe on 8 May 1945.

This anniversary is a reminder of the huge sacrifices that our countrymen and women made to protect the freedoms we still enjoy today. We must also look beyond, to our allies, as victory in Europe was a result of the cooperation and combined strength of multiple nations.

Today, we continue to honour that legacy. The Government’s commitment to spending 2.5% of our GDP on defence by 2027 underscores our recognition of the importance of maintaining strong alliances and ensuring our security. Just as the victory in Europe was the result of unity, our future strength lies in the continued collaboration with our allies. 

On 8 May 1945, Winston Churchill, stood before a jubilant crowd of thousands in central London, and declared: “In our long history we have never seen a greater day than this.” 

Just like the streets of central London, Barnet was alive with celebration. Residents gathered in the streets, filled with an overwhelming sense of relief as they marked the end of the war in Europe.  

As we commemorate the 80th anniversary, we know that these next few years may be our last opportunity to hear directly from the veterans who served and fought for our country. Their stories are invaluable, and it is crucial that we continue to listen to their experiences, ensuring their voices are preserved so future generations never forget, and always appreciate, the sacrifices made. 

One such remarkable story is that of Ruth Bourne, 98, from High Barnet. Ruth worked at Bletchley Park in Buckinghamshire, in an all-female secret team pulled together by the British government, where the codebreakers intercepted critical Nazi messages. This played a pivotal role in securing the Allied victory. Ruth speaks of the “great, euphoric feeling” she and many others felt as they celebrated the end of the war. 

In Barnet, we are fortunate to have people who did so much for all of us such as Ruth, and a vibrant community that honours its history. I encourage residents to participate in local VE Day events, share stories, and engage with veterans. By doing so, we not only pay tribute to their legacy but also strengthen the bonds that make our community resilient. 

80 years on, it’s important to mark this anniversary with commemoration and celebration. Barnet Council has invited residents to host and attend street parties in May – a meaningful opportunity for the local community to come together and honour those who served during the war. 

Here in Barnet, we remember the bravery and determination of all those who fought, including our Allied friends, whose contributions were essential to the war’s end.  

Let us celebrate this momentous milestone by coming together as a community, sharing our history, and ensuring the sacrifices of the past are never forgotten.