A floral tribute to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War ll will take centre stage at award-winning parks in Stafford and Stone.

The flowers in the carpet beds at Victoria Park in Stafford and Stonefield Park in Stone will be designed to commemorate ‘Victory in Europe’ (VE) and ‘Victory over Japan’ (VJ) in 1945.

The parks have previously commemorated major events - such as the Platinum Jubilee of the late Queen Elizabeth II in 2022 and a tribute to the coronation of King Charles III in the summer of 2023 (pictured) - as well as honouring the NHS, armed forces and several charities and organisations that do great work to benefit the borough - including the Samaritans last year.

2025 marks 80 years since the end of the Second World War with VE Day on 8 May and VJ Day on 15 August 1945 - with the Royal British Legion logo at the centre of the carpet bed design.

Cabinet Member for Leisure at Stafford Borough Council, Gillian Pardesi, said they wanted to ensure those that gave their service and sacrifice, both at home and abroad, would be remembered.

Both borough council run parks hold ‘Green Flag’ awards - the national yardstick for the best open spaces in the country - and tens of thousands of residents and visitors use the venues throughout the year.

Councillor Pardesi said: “The decision to have a floral decoration to commemorate these two extremely important days in our history was a very easy one. Both parks are very much loved and have been recognised nationally for their quality and this will be a fitting tribute to encourage people to remember those who sacrificed so much to protect the freedoms we enjoy today.”

Earlier this month a light and sound display was projected onto the iconic Grade ll* listed Shire Hall in Stafford - commemorating the 80th year - and a service is planned for June at St Mary’s Church in Stafford to mark VE and VJ Day to pay tribute to those who gave their lives and made sacrifices in WW2.

Victoria Park will also host a VE Day commemoration event throughout the afternoon on Saturday (10 May) featuring cultural displays and live music, with exhibition stands and demonstrations. The Armed Forces will also be represented on the day.

Activities are taking place to mark the anniversary in historic buildings in the borough with more information from www.historicstafford.co.uk/whats-on/ and the borough council has waived fees for people wanting to organise street parties as part of 80th commemorations.

Press Release No 6205