Leek Town Council always does what it believes to be in the best interests of the health and safety of those that live in our town.
That is why in the present circumstances the Town Council has cancelled the local activities planned to remember VE Day – the 75th anniversary of the end of the Second World War in Europe.
“We cannot have people congregating in crowds and potential risk for spreading the corona virus,” explains Mayor Cllr Sue Coleman. Adding: “We trust that everyone in Leek is following the government’s instructions on staying safe.
“The Events Committee arrangements for a major event on Sunday 10th May have been cancelled as has Party in the Park which was due to take place on Sunday 14th June.
“However, the Council feels that it is important to at least demonstrate that the town recognises the significance of VE Day, which not only marked the end of the Second World War in Europe but also 75 years of peace for most of Europe.
“Some may ask “What’s the point?” Well, the Second World War was a conflict in which over 100 men and women from Leek were killed in the service of their country, often in places far from home.
“They were local people like Private Percy Nixon, killed at Dunkirk on 28th May 1940; Private Dennis Higgins, a brilliant footballer, who lived in Campbell Avenue. One of Montgomery’s Eighth Army, known as the Desert Rats, Dennis died at the Battle of El Alamein on 25th September 1942. Private Elvira Bailey who died on 2nd November 1942. Private Cyril Byatt who was killed during the fighting for the Anzio beach head in Italy in February 1944.”
Cllr Coleman continues: “The Town Council wants to show that the town acknowledges their sacrifice and the efforts of all Leek people in the fight against fascism.
“In normal circumstances the Town Council would have joined with the local branch of the Royal British Legion to hold a ceremony at the Nicholson War Memorial which would have included laying a wreath in honour of all those heroes of the Second World War. Sadly, this ceremony too has been cancelled.
“Instead the Town Council has decided to mark the day with a display of special commemorative banners at or near the memorial sites around the Town. There are three for which the Town Council has a responsibility – the Nicholson War Memorial (perhaps better known as the Monument), the Ball Haye Green Memorial, and the Leekbrook Memorial. It was also decided to place one near the memorial at St Edward’s Church, this being the “official” town memorial.
“The banners have been created by a team led by Chair of the Friends of the Nicholson War Memorial Ben Benefer. Ben has coordinated input from his fellow committee member Dave Swarbrook, local graphic designer Alleyne Parry and sign-maker Dan Allen from Leek-based Supersport.”
“We wanted a simple but powerful message proclaiming “VE Day 8th May, Leek remembers”, explains Cllr Ben Benefer.
“Despite the difficult circumstances, the Town Council felt it was still important to do something to mark this milestone for peace in Europe and honour the local service men and women who gave their lives to help make this possible.”
Cllr Sue Coleman concludes saying: “The Council has called for all Leek residents to take part in the two minutes’ silence at 11.00 am on Friday 8th May
“Later, on the same day at 3.00pm Leek people are invited to join in the Nation’s Toast to the heroes of World War 2 by standing up to raise a glass and undertake the toast “To those who gave so much, we thank you.” This can be done on your doorstep and you can clap in the same way that we have been doing for the NHS and all key workers.”
Leek Town Crier
“We are honoured that Bill Lomas, the Leek Town Crier will be joining his fellow Town Criers across the country to give a ‘Cry for Peace at 6.55pm on Friday 8 May.”
The event will be followed by a reading by Bill of the “Tribute to the Millions”.
ENDS
Issued by Mike Ottewell (Councillor)
M: 07989 602480