VJ Day commemorations across Erewash

The Borough of Erewash joined the nation in commemoration of 80 years since the victory over Japan day, known as VJ day, when Japan announced its surrender to the Allied Forces, marking the formal end of World War Two.

Today, 15th August 2025, residents attended the commemorative service at the cenotaph in Ilkeston at 10:45 am. This was presented by Deputy Mayor, Councillor Greg Maskalick.

The service was organised by the Royal British Legion. It included a wreath laying ceremony as a traditional and symbolic act of remembrance. Residents came forward to place wreaths at the base of the memorial, a quiet tribute to the fallen.

“There should be more people here recognising their sacrifice and what they died for” commented a local person attending the Cenotaph ceremony. 

In parallel, there was a service, organised by the Royal British Legion, at the war memorial in Long Eaton at 10:45am, attended by the Mayor of Erewash, Councillor Harry Atkinson.

The commemorations will continue into the evening with several events which are organised by the Council, as confirmed by Erewash Borough Council Leader James Dawson.  “This evening we have 1940s entertainment, and we have the beacon lighting at 10pm,” said Councillor Dawson.

The beacon lighting ceremonies will take place at 8:00pm, as stated on the Council’s Website, at Victoria Park in Ilkeston and outside Long Eaton Town Hall. These events will feature performances by 1940s singers, adding a nostalgic element to the remembrance. Additionally, a parade organized by the Royal British Legion will start at 6:45 pm at the Long Eaton War Memorial, serving as a powerful prelude to the beacon lighting ceremony.