North East VE Day Celebrations
Hundreds of beacons are being lit across the country today, to mark 70 years since the end of the Second World War in Europe.
VE Day events are taking place across the North East, with parties and beacon lightings all over the area.
At sunset on the 8 May the first beacon will be lit by the Queen followed by a chain of over 100 beacons across the UK.
You can find your nearest event on this map.
There'll be events in Stockton, Barnard Castle, Ferryhill and Hartlepool.
There'll be 3 days of commemorations to mark the 70th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, ranging from a parade, a service of thanksgiving and a star-studded concert in central London, to street parties around the UK.
Vice Admiral Peter Wilkinson CB CVO, National President of the Royal British Legion said: "We are honoured to play our part in helping the nation mark 70 years since the end of the Second World War in Europe.
"The Legion has a responsibility to help the memories of those of who have fought and died in our nation’s Armed Forces live on for future generations. The commemoration of this conflict, still in living memory, gives us the opportunity to salute the Second World War generation.
"We hope that all communities will use the VE Day 70 commemorations to thank them and celebrate the role they played in our nation’s history."
Further details on the commemorations, including event listings, are available at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/ve-day-70th-anniversary.