St Albans marks 80th anniversary of VJ Day with ceremony

The event was led by St Albans mayor, Councillor Teresa Heritage at the war memorial.

She was joined by councillors, honorary aldermen, and senior council officers to remember the end of the Second World War and pay their respects to the fallen.

Mayor of St Albans Councillor Teresa Heritage (centre), with Patricia Bennett (left) and Mary Welch (right) from the Burma Star Association (Image: St Albans City & District Council) They were also joined by veterans from the Royal British Legion and representatives from the Burma Star Association, alongside around 30 members of the public.

The date, August 15, marks the day in 1945 when Japan surrendered to allied forces, bringing the Second World War to a close.

A proclamation was read by town crier Stephen Potter to honour the courage of those who perished in the conflict in the Far East.

Reverend Vanessa Jefferson, minor canon precentor at St Albans Cathedral, led prayers and a two-minute silence at midday, which was held throughout the country.

Mayor of St Albans Councillor Teresa Heritage laying a wreath at the war memorial (Image: St Albans City & District Council) Councillor Heritage and two representatives from the Burma Star Association, Patricia Bennett and Mary Welch, then placed wreaths at the memorial.

The Union flag was also flown from St Albans Museum + Gallery as a mark of respect.

After the ceremony, Councillor Heritage said: "It is a great honour to lead the district’s commemoration of VJ Day 80.

"I am very thankful to all those who took the time and trouble to attend the service and it was pleasing to see so many of our residents there.

"It was our community’s way of coming together to remember the suffering and courage of all those who fought against the Japanese in Burma, Malaysia, Singapore, and Hong Kong.

"We shall never forget."

She added: "The Burma Star Association has a memorial at St Peter’s Church which was refurbished two years ago and I would urge people to go and have a look at it and reflect on the importance of VJ Day."