Happy VE Day! Like many others, Woodbridge celebrated this joyous occasion over 75 years ago as reported in the Suffolk Chronicle and Mercury at the time.

One specific article, which can be found at the Suffolk Record Office, states that ‘Bunting, flags, and streamers decorated the town. Loudspeakers played music on the Market hill and there was dancing and songs until late.’ This was one of the many street parties during that celebratory day. People were happy but also relieved that the end of the war was finally coming closer.

This article also mentioned that ‘Someone even let off some tear gas which caused a lot of discomfort. The Church tower was flood lit all evening, and there was a bonfire on the Fen Meadow.’ People came together to celebrate this significant moment and the supposed ‘new world’. Although this day was tinged with some sadness, it was one to remember.

However, the war still hadn’t ended for many. Even after the surrender of the Germans, the war would continue for many soldiers as prisoners of war. The Japanese surrender wasn’t until the 10th of August and peace declarations were made on the 15th of August 1945. Other aspects of wartime life continued after VE Day with rationing of supplies and food continuing another 9 years.

Once the war had ‘officially’ ended, bigger celebrations could take place. This included more bunting, flags, streamers, music, and dancing. Even with these celebrations, the devastating effects the war had on not only the country but the county of Suffolk will always be remembered.

Not only were the people affected, but also East Anglia itself. Around 5,000 tonnes of bombs were dropped in the area, there were over 200,000 properties damaged by the war in the region, more than 1,000 were killed and 4,000 were injured due to the bombing that occurred. Like so many others, it would take the East Anglian region time to heal from the war.

This year’s celebrations, much like last year’s, will of course be quite different from that first VE day back in 1945. However, that doesn’t mean we can’t celebrate – everyone at the Mill hopes you all enjoy your celebrations this year.