Beacon Lighting

The Beacon lighting will take place at 9.30pm on Thursday 8th May at Pendennis Castle, coinciding with the lighting of the Beacons throughout the United Kingdom, Channel Islands and the Isle of Man. The light from the flame will represent the ‘light of peace’ that emerged from the darkness of war.

In the lead-up to the Beacon lighting, there will be a variety of fitting live performances from local artists. As the final performance before the lighting of the Beacon, Will Keating will lead the audience in the anthem ‘I vow to thee my country’ which will be performed across the country in a moment of unity. You can find the lyrics here.

Live music:
6pm to 7pm – Rachel Best
7.15pm to 8.15pm – Culdrose Military Wives Choir
8.30pm to 9.30pm – Will Keating

All those taking part in VE Day 80 celebrations are encouraged to stop what they are doing at 9.30pm and read out the following Tribute, bringing the Nation together at this one moment in time.

Let us remember those who gave their lives at home and abroad, whose sacrifice enables us to all enjoy the peace we have today.
Let us remember those who came home, wounded, physically and mentally, and the friends and family who cared for them.
Let us remember those who returned to restore their relationships and rebuild their working and family lives after years of conflict and turmoil.
Let us remember the families that lost husbands, wives, sons, daughters and sweethearts.
Let us remember the servicemen and women of other nationalities and faiths from Commonwealth and allied countries who fought, suffered and died during six years of war.
Let us remember those in reserved occupations and the brave people who kept us safe on the home front – the doctors, nurses who cared for the wounded, the men and women who toiled in the fields, the fisherman who fished the seas, those who worked in the factories and the air-raid wardens, the police officers, firemen, ambulance drivers and the young people of the Scouts and Guides who played such a vital role in the war effort at home too.
God Save The King