RESIDENTS have been pulling together to mark the 75th anniversary of VE Day.
People have been showing their support by putting up bunting and helping others to celebrate the national event amid the coronavirus lockdown.
Bolton Council leader Cllr David Greenhalgh has been moved by the response.
He said: “If is heartwarming to see, particularly during these challenging times, that residents across the borough are decorating their houses to commemorate the 75th anniversary of VE Day.
“I asked residents to turn the borough into a sea of red, white and blue, and you have responded to the point where I know there is a now a shortage of bunting and flags.
“I know there are virtual street parties going on, sing-a-longs, afternoon teas being delivered to those vulnerable and isolating, and above all a real community spirit being created, as indeed the historic announcement in 1945 did.
“We must do this safely and at home, and not risk any of the progress we’ve made over the last few weeks in slowing down the spread of the virus.
“But we can celebrate and commemorate this historic milestone, and raise a glass, not only to remember the end of a war, but to those who didn’t come home and also those families who have lost loved ones to Covid-19, and have loved ones fighting the virus.”
George Campbell, who runs the Spread Eagle pub, has used funds from its Saturday night lockdown bingo to pay for 100 afternoon teas for residents, which will be delivered with the help of the Bromley Cross and Egerton Support Group.
The Egerton war memorial has also been decorated with Union Jacks as well as Half Lane.
Outside the war memorial
The Spread Eagle pub
Bunting has been put up outside homes
George said: "We always planned a big VE Day party so we wanted to do something to commemorate the event.
"It is a bit of a strange time but we need to remember it is a big occasion.
"If we can do something during lockdown to celebrate, it helps."
Cllr Samantha Connor said: "This has been a real team effort with local businesses, community activists, local councillors and most importantly, residents, coming together at this difficult time to offer help and support to those shielding and in isolation.
"From shopping to collecting medication, from befriending to sewing equipment, it’s heart-warming to see a community respond to help one another.”
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