Watch Sheffield Council leader’s poignant lockdown speech remembering wartime victory in Europe
and live on Freeview channel 276
Julie Dore recorded a video address to the city from her home, as the public ceremonies that would normally have been organised were made impossible because of lockdown restrictions.
“Please join this cry for peace that you now hear from me – remember men and women, old and young, who died to make us free,” said the council’s Labour leader, who was set to step down this month but is staying on until further notice because of the pandemic.
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Hide Ad“The women left at home did not just sit and wait – they toiled in harsh conditions, before dawn to very late. Factories, farms, other essential jobs – the women were quick at learning. They worked – some died – to keep the home fires burning.”
Coun Dore added: “As we remember this special day, do not forget that especially today, someone needs your aid. Do not put away your poppies, letting your memories fade.
“Celebrate with the knowledge that VE Day is also a time to remember beyond the solemn wreaths of the 11th of November. Let’s thank all those who have gone before with their colours proudly unfurled – join us, as united we say ‘peace to the world’.”
Coun Dore’s tribute – titled ‘Cry for Peace’ – follows a similar speech by the Lord Mayor of Sheffield, Coun Tony Downing, which was released as a video yesterday.
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Hide AdVictory in Europe Day is held to celebrate the end of the war in Europe on May 8, 1945.
On Friday people raised their glasses for a nationwide toast at 3pm, and a mass singalong to Dame Vera Lynn's ‘We’ll Meet Again’ took place, but the commemorations are continuing this weekend.
Sheffield Council is urging residents to ‘stay safe’ and to continue to follow vital social distancing guidelines while paying their respects.