In pictures
VE Day, 8 May 1945
When it became increasingly clear that Allied victory over Nazi Germany in Europe was likely, plans were made by the British authorities to celebrate it – while considering that the war against Japan could still be taking place.
Cease Fire (Europe) Book
- Date
- 1945
- Catalogue reference
- HO 45/23203
Printed page from a book.
Home Office circular letter sent to local councils on the celebration of VE Day
- Date
- 1945
- Catalogue reference
- CAB 21/1594
Typewritten letter.
Memorandum by the Home Secretary and Minister of Home Security on arrangements for celebrating VE Day
- Date
- 1945
- Catalogue reference
- HO 45/23203
Printed document containing a list of recommendations.
Summary of main announcements proposed for VE Day and the following days
- Date
- 1944
- Catalogue reference
- CAB 21/1594
Typewritten document with a handwritten note at the top describing it as an appendix.
Instructions to Allied armed forces regarding the celebration of VE Day
- Date
- 1945
- Catalogue reference
- WO 219/1254
Printed document headed 'SECRET' and 'Staff Message Control Incoming Message'.
Instructions for the display of the flags of Allied nations on public offices after VE Day
- Date
- 1945
- Catalogue reference
- WORK 21/204
Typewritten letter with ticks in pen marking who has been copied in.
Scene outside The Swan – VE Day children’s treat
- Date
- 1945
- Catalogue reference
- INF 3/1199
Ink and watercolour illustration of celebrating figures below a pub sign saying 'The Swan'.
Metropolitan Police report on the victory celebrations in London on VE Day
- Date
- 1945
- Catalogue reference
- MEPO 2/6266
Typewritten document with headings including 'Licensed Premises' and 'Wilful Damage'.
A message sent from the Prime Minister to people of the British Empire in Japanese occupied territories announcing VE Day
- Date
- 1945
- Catalogue reference
- FO 371/46367
Typewritten document on a template marked 'Outward Telegram'.