King joins veterans to mark 80th anniversary of VE Day

Second World War veterans were joined by the King and prime minister at Westminster Abbey yesterday, as the nation marked 80 years since fighting against Nazi Germany ended on that momentous day in 1945.

- ATHENA STAVROU

Charles and other members of the royal family honoured the sacrifices of those who brought peace to Europe during a moving thanksgiving service in London. It began with a twominute silence at noon, which was observed by millions of people across the country as union flags flew at full mast.

The King led the service as he left a floral tribute at the Grave of the Unknown Warrior on behalf of the nation and the Commonwealth. A handwritten message from the King on the wreath read: “We will never forget.”

Prince William left a wreath a few moments after his father, in a tribute to veterans and the generation who lived through the conflict. Both wreaths featured flowers which would have been in bloom in May 1945.

Some 78 veterans attended the service, including 99-year-old Ken Hay, who served with the 4th Dorset infantry regiment, in his wheelchair by the side of Charles and William as the Abbey observed the national two-minute silence.