As Bank Holiday Friday approaches and VE celebrations take place, people are being told not to throw street parties due to the current pandemic rules
Friday marks the 75th anniversary of the end of fighting in Europe, and it is also a bank holiday, which usually means that people will be enjoying time with family and friends. However, people have been warned this year not to break the current rules regarding social distancing and meeting others or throwing street parties with neighbours.
This warning comes as the UK starts to prepare for a potential relaxation on the lockdown rules, which is expected on Sunday during the Prime Minister’s update.
However, even if there is some lenience on the current restrictions – police are advising people to adhere to the rules until further notice.
Chief Constable Carl Foulkes of North Wales Police said: “As an ex-serviceman and someone whose grandfather served in the Second World War, I absolutely share people’s disappointment that we wouldn’t be able to put on the celebration that we intended to when the bank holiday was moved, I don’t think that means we don’t celebrate, but it just means doing it in different ways… from people’s homes, online, but ultimately we’ve got to make sure people are kept safe.”
People have also been warned to avoid unnecessary travel. Dyfed-Powys Police recently reported that excuses such as buying a puppy, going for a spin, and picking up a bouncy castle were among some of the reasons people were out and about.
Inspector Andy Williams said, “Unfortunately we have continued to see some individuals flouting the rules by travelling to second homes and other holiday accommodation, driving hundreds of miles under the guise of seeking exercise, and in some cases attempting to take advantage of quieter roads to commit a crime.”
Other forces have echoed these warnings across the country. Although you can’t celebrate in the traditional sense, virtual parties and garden celebrations are great ways to get into the VE Day spirit.
A day of celebrations with The Royal British Legion
Despite the lack of street parties and traditional celebrations, The Royal British Legion is encouraging people to join in the festivities with them.
Gareth Price, Corby branch RBL chairman, said:
“We will be doing our best to celebrate, but the most important thing is to stay safe.”
“I shall be joining in the VE Day celebrations from home. I’ll probably have one or two drinks and, by the end of the week, the weather will be nice enough for us to sit outside.
“At 9pm, we will be joining in the Vera Lynn sing-song of We’ll Meet Again.
“The most important thing is to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice, celebrate with each other, but stay safe and socially distanced.”
There are numerous virtual events taking place throughout the day, including a nationwide Stay at Home Street Party. The BBC will also be showing dedicated programmes, and everyone is encouraged to join with a national sing-along to We’ll Meet Again after the Queen’s address.
This news comes after Nicola Sturgeon has announced that lockdown measures in Scotland are to last at least another 3 weeks.
