A momentous day to party like it's 1945

Richard Jones on how BBC1 is covering the 80th anniversary of VE Day on Thursday

- Richard Jones

May 8, 1945 was a day of huge celebration in Britain.

The streets were packed with people singing and dancing, although the festivities were bittersweet for many who had lost loved ones in the Second World War or were waiting for their safe return.

Next Thursday marks the 80th anniversary of VE Day, when the Allies formally accepted Germany's unconditional surrender, bringing the conflict in Europe to an end.

While many of the United Kingdom's celebrations take place on Bank Holiday Monday, Thursday is the official VE Day anniversary, so there are a number of special events taking place throughout the country and on the BBC.

The finale of this week's festivities is the live concert from Horse Guards Parade in London presented by Zoe Ball.