Traders in Ellesmere are being encouraged to turn back the clock and take part in a competition to mark the 80th anniversary of V.E Day next month.
The Town Council and the local branch of the Royal British Legion would like businesses to decorate their shop windows in 1940s style, as part of a series of events and activities to celebrate the end of the 2nd World War.
A number of retailers put on similar displays for the 75th anniversary in 2020, but the restrictions imposed because of the first lock-down during the Covid pandemic meant that many people missed seeing them.
This time, it’s hoped that shop window displays will help to enhance the town centre, which will be decked out with flags and bunting to provide a colourful welcome for visitors and local residents..
A spokesperson said: “We’d like to see as many traders as possible taking part in the vintage shop window competition and giving their businesses a 1940s look.”
Shopkeepers are asked to have their displays ready in time for the May Day bank holiday on Monday, May 5th. Judging will take place on V.E. Day, Thursday, May 8th, 80 years to the day since Nazi Germany surrendered after nearly six years of war.
A civic wreath-laying ceremony will take place at the Ellesmere War Memorial at 6.30 on in the evening of the 8th, followed by a special anniversary service at St Mary’s parish church, beginning at 7.30.
On the following evening, Friday, May 9, there will be a 1940s quiz, organised by the Royal British Legion at Ellesmere Comrades Club.
On Saturday afternoon, May 10th, staff and volunteers at Ellesmere Library will be inviting people to sample “A Taste of Wartime,”, which will feature a talk on food rationing, and a presentation on how people coped with shortages and other hardships .
