Residents and organisations in Stafford Borough can get roads closed for free for street parties to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War 2.

The borough council has waived the usual fee to save organisers paying out if they are running an event to commemorate Victory in Europe or Victory over Japan.

The move has previously proved popular for national celebrations across the borough such as the coronation of King Charles lll in 2023 and the platinum jubilee of Her Majesty, the late Queen Elizabeth ll, the previous year.

And local organisations are also being urged to bid for lottery money to help put on activities as part of the 80th anniversary from www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk

Leader of the Council, Aidan Godfrey, said: “We know how much our communities respect and appreciate the sacrifices made, both at home and abroad, to protect the freedoms that we enjoy today.

“Many will want to pay their own tributes - and I want to help remove some of the costs and administration that may be a barrier to them commemorating these important dates with family, friends and neighbours.”

Recently more than 1500 residents, families and visitors poured into Stafford’s Market Square to see a light and sound show, highlighting the sacrifices made in the world wars, projected onto the historic grade 2* listed Shire Hall building.

And a service is planned for Saturday 21 June at St Mary’s Church in Stafford to mark VE and VJ Days and pay tribute to those who gave their lives and made sacrifices in World War 2.

A VE Day themed children’s workshop is taking place at the Ancient High House - with the venue also holding an exhibition in early May on the lives of local men telling their stories through medals and historical artefacts. Izaak Walton Cottage will be holding a traditional afternoon tea set against the backdrop of wartime music on Sunday (4th); Stafford Castle will be lit up red, white and blue on the evening of VE Day - and the Gatehouse Theatre will be holding a classic war film that afternoon.

With VE Day falling on Thursday 8 May, the council will not be charging for the administration costs of putting a road closure in place on the Bank Holiday weekend before that date (3 to 5 May) - or on the following weekend (10 and 11 May.) VJ Day is Friday 15 August.

People can also advertise their activities on the council’s events calendar www.staffordbc.gov.uk/submit-event and find more information about road closures from www.staffordbc.gov.uk/road-closures-for-events.

The government is also promoting advice on organising a street party from their website www.gov.uk/government/publications/your-guide-to-organising-a-street-party/your-guide-to-organising-a-street-party

Councillor Godfrey added: “Having road closures in place can help ensure any street parties are safe and I’d urge people to get in contact us with us as soon as possible if they are thinking of holding an event.”

People requesting a road closure for an event must do so four weeks before the event.

Press Release No 6201