HISTORIC VE DAY CELEBRATIONS UNITE HAYDON WICK COMMUNITY
Weekend of Commemorative Events Culminates in Family Picnic Attended by 400 Residents
SWINDON, WILTSHIRE — Haydon Wick Parish Council successfully delivered a series of moving tributes to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, culminating in a family picnic at Mouldon Hill Country Park that attracted approximately 400 residents.
The commemorations began on Thursday, May 8th, with the raising of the VE Day flag at 9am, followed by an evening “Lights of Peace” event where residents placed candles and lamps in their windows while a special VE80 display was illuminated at 9:30pm, coinciding with beacon lightings across the United Kingdom.
“The community’s participation in the national Lights of Peace initiative was truly heartwarming,” said Councillor Leanne Stevenson, Vice Chair, Community Development Committee. “Seeing homes throughout the parish illuminated as symbols of remembrance perfectly captured the spirit of national unity and reflection that defined the original VE Day.”
The weekend celebrations continued with Saturday’s nostalgic family picnic at Mouldon Hill Country Park, which combined authentic 1940s experiences with family-friendly entertainment.
Event Highlights
Visitors enjoyed a full program of activities throughout the afternoon, including:
- Nostalgic melodies performed by Swindon Brass
- Traditional attractions from George Scarrott’s and Sons Fun Fair
- Face painting by Mandie’s Magic Brushes
- Vintage outdoor games that delighted children 80 years ago
- Semaphore demonstrations from Semaphore demonstrations from 1st Greenmeadow Guides and 1st Haydon Wick Rangers
- Refreshments from Nick’s Ice Creams
- Authentic vintage train rides between Mouldon Hill Country Park and Swindon & Cricklade Railway stations
Many attendees embraced the historic theme by wearing 1940s-inspired outfits, adding to the event’s nostalgic atmosphere. Families spread picnic blankets across the park, enjoying both the scheduled entertainment and the simple pleasure of community gathering.
“In the 1940s, families gathered for simple pleasures that brought communities together during challenging times,” noted Haydon Wick Parish Councillor Adam John. “Our event honoured that tradition while creating new memories for today’s families.”
Community Participation
The multi-day commemoration showcased the community spirit that defines Haydon Wick. Residents of all ages embraced both the solemn remembrance of Thursday’s Lights of Peace and the joyful celebration of Saturday’s family picnic.
“Our commemorations honoured both aspects of VE Day – the reflection on sacrifice and the jubilation of peace,” noted Councillor Rebecca Ross, Chair of Community Development Committee. “By spreading our events across both the actual anniversary date and the weekend, we were able to create meaningful opportunities for everyone to participate.”
The Parish Council extends special thanks to all volunteers, staff, and councillors who contributed to the events’ success, as well as to sponsors Nick’s Ice Creams and Absolute Motor Care Ltd.
Looking Ahead
Following the success of the VE Day Celebration, Haydon Wick Parish Council invites residents to save the date for their next community event: the Haydon Wick Summer Extravaganza on Saturday, August 16th, at the NEW venue of Trent Road Playing Fields.
For more information about upcoming community events, please contact Haydon Wick Parish Council.
