Beacon Lighting at Durlston Castle

It is happening to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day

Author: Greg DeanPublished 17th Apr 2025

Dorset will be joining in the nation-wide commemoration of the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day on 8th May with a special beacon-lighting service.

The beacon will be one of thousands up and down the country which will be lit to mark the end of the Second World War.

The service will take place at Durlston Castle in Swanage at 9.30pm.

Members of the public are invited to attend and watch the beacon being lit.

The Tribute will be read by HM Lord-Lieutenant Mr Michael Dooley LVO.

This will be followed by speeches from the Chair of Dorset Council, Cllr Stella Jones MBE, and past Royal British Legion Dorset County Chairman, Mr Gerry Nunn.

The evening will conclude with National Anthem.

Cllr Stella Jones said: “The event will be part of a nationwide chain of beacons, illuminating the night sky across the United Kingdom honouring those who sacrificed for our freedom and inspire future generations to cherish the values of freedom and peace.

“We hope that residents of Swanage and people from other towns and villages across Dorset will join with us for this special event.”

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