CRICKLADE will be lit up to commemorate the 70th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day.

The town is one of 200 around the country lighting a special beacon on Friday.

The event is being held at Saxon’s Rest, next to the Town Hall. There will be a short ceremony taking place at 9.15pm, with the beacon being lit at 9.32pm.

Bruno Peek, Pageant Master of the VE Day 70th Anniversary Beacons, said: “VE Day represents a further important milestone in the history of our country.

“It was on this day, 70 years ago, that peace brought an end to nearly six years of war across Europe.

“We must not let this day pass without reflecting on the sacrifice, courage and determination of the people who saw us through this dark period.

“It is therefore fitting that we should celebrate with the veterans and their families and commemorate this historic anniversary once more through the lighting of beacons on Friday.”

He said the lighting would get underway with a very special ceremony at Windsor Castle before the event in Cricklade.

“Her Majesty The Queen has graciously agreed to light the principal and first beacon outside Windsor Castle,” he said.

“This will be followed by two further beacons being lit along the long walk in Windsor Great Park, just before the lighting of the other two hundred plus beacons throughout the United Kingdom.”

Clive Smith, High Bailiff of Cricklade, said the town is delighted to be part of the national commemorations.

He said: “It is an honour as it is something which towns and cities should be doing.

“We are delighted to get behind it and show support as part of these commemorations.

“Hopefully the weather will be fine and lots of people will come out on Friday evening.”

A beacon will also be lit at Barbury Castle on the same night.

Elsewhere, The Royal British Legion information centre, in Regent Street, Swindon, is holding a coffee morning to mark the anniversary between 10am and 2pm on Saturday.

They will be serving cakes and biscuits as well as playing music from the 1940s.

To find out more about events taking place near you, visit www.veday.org.uk.