This year marks the 80th anniversaries of VE Day and VJ Day, commemorating the end of the Second World War. The resilient and determined generation who lived through and fought in that conflict are now slipping into the annals of history, but we must never forget the sacrifices they made so that we may live in freedom. The words of the Kohima Epitaph – ‘When you go home, tell them of us and say, for your tomorrow, we gave our today’ – are as relevant now as when they were first written. Worksop Royal British Legion is organising this year’s Festival of Remembrance on Saturday 18th October at the North Notts Community Arena. The theme will reflect the ending of the Second World War, and the event will not only remember the fallen and recognise the sacrifices of all, but will also mark the 80th anniversary of Worksop Sea Cadets.
The festival is truly a community event. It sets the tone for the Poppy Appeal and showcases the best in our young people, to whom we pass the baton of remembrance. Worksop RBL is also seeking any surviving Second World War veterans, or those who served in supporting roles such as the Land Army, munitions or civil defence, to be part of this once-in-a-lifetime anniversary. The Worksop Festival of Remembrance is the only event of its kind in Nottinghamshire organised by the Royal British Legion. It is held in partnership with Worksop-based Bassetlaw District Councillors (Worksop Charter Trustees), working with and for the community.
People can support the festival by purchasing tickets for the event, available from North Notts Arena or by contacting Worksop RBL, or by sharing their personal experiences of VE80 and VJ80.