PUBLIC URGED TO TAKE PART IN ONLINE VE DAY COMMEMORATIONS

Published date : 07 May 2020

FIFE MSP CALLS ON CONSTITUENTS TO PAY TRIBUTE DESPITE LOCKDOWN RESTRICTIONS

An online service of remembrance and a two-minute silence will lead Scotland’s commemorations this year to mark the 75th anniversary of VE Day on 8th May.

While the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic has put an end to plans for public celebrations, Mid Fife and Glenrothes MSP, Jenny Gilruth, has urged her constituents to pay their respects by attending an online service.

The commemorations led by the Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland, will include a message from children and families currently learning at home including a video message of thanks from the First Minister.

Commenting, the Fife MSP said:

“The 75th anniversary of VE Day is a hugely important moment in Scotland’s history.

“Despite the difficult situation we currently all find ourselves in, it is only right that we pay tribute to the determination and sacrifices made by the men and women in the Second World War.

“I hope people across Fife will join millions of others on the 8th of May in a shared moment national commemoration.”

Gordon Michie, the Head of Fundraising and Learning at Poppyscotland and a Markinch local, said:

“Charities across the country are facing major funding challenges and Poppyscotland is no different. Having already cancelled numerous fundraising events due to the coronavirus pandemic, the postponement of the official VE Day programme will see Poppyscotland miss out on tens of thousands of pounds in expected donations.

“That is why Poppyscotland is also asking the public to hold their virtual VE Day parties to raise vital funds for the charity. This will ensure that we can continue to provide our life-changing support to the Armed Forces community at a time when it is needed more than ever.

“VE Day parties are an opportunity to bring together family and friends via popular video chat platforms such as FaceTime, Zoom and Houseparty. They are an ideal way to remain connected with loved ones and join in a collective tribute to the generation who gave so much.

“Our Armed Forces were bravely battling on the front line of the Second World War 75 years ago, and even today they are making an essential and selfless contribution on the frontline of the war against coronavirus. Just as we pause to remember the incredible sacrifice made by the Second World War generation, Poppyscotland is here to support our Armed Forces community today.”

ENDS

Notes:

The Legion Scotland Service of Remembrance will be broadcast on Legion Scotland and Poppy Scotland’s social media channels from 10.40 a.m. until 11.15 a.m. The online concert will then begin at 11.45 a.m. until 1 p.m.

The First Minister’s message will be posted on Twitter @scotgov

Poppyscotland’s online resources can be found at: www.poppyscotland.org.uk/VEDayParty

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