Keel Square gets ready to host a street party for Sunderland's shared celebrations for the 80th Anniversary of VE Day

A day of celebration to mark 80 years since the end of World War 2 in Europe is being held in Keel Square from 11am that day with everyone invited.

VE Day bunting, World War 2 vehicles with uniformed staff, and a vintage double decker bus will all add to the VE Day spirit in Keel Square, along with deck chairs and picnic tables for people to sit and soak up the atmosphere.

There'll also be the chance to enjoy one of the nation's favourite dishes of fish and chips from a vintage style van on Keel Square. During the war years, many of the ingredients that make up this dish were left unrationed, helping solidify the dish into British cuisine.

The WI will also be holding a charitable cake sale in the Pavilion beneath the EXPO screen from 11am as well as hosting a tombola, craft demonstrations and a display showcasing the WI during the war to now.

The street party itself gets underway from 4pm, with a packed programme of performers to enjoy, including singers, dance troupes, a Punch and Judy show, face painters and stilt walkers.

Residents are also being encouraged to submit any photos that they may have from VE day for display on the EXPO screen on the day alongside archived photos and videos of the 1940s celebrations. These can be sent to: events@sunderland.gov.uk

Councillor Beth Jones, Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture and Tourism at Sunderland City Council, said: "Street parties are a traditional way of celebrating VE day by bringing communities together. It will be fantastic to see Sunderland residents and communities coming together on Keel Square to join in this shared moment of celebration.

"There are so many brilliant things to see and do on the day. Even though it's a normal working day for residents, I'd like to encourage everyone to come down and join in with Sunderland VE Day celebrations."

The celebrations on Keel Square are part of the wider programme of organised events happening across Sunderland.

Following on from the street party, there'll be a chance to enjoy the ringing of the Sunderland Minster Church Bells between 5pm and 5:45pm.

Then, from 7pm, residents can attend a special VE Day concert at the Fire Station. This will include performances from vintage singers, dancers, a big band and a choir. This will be hosted by former breakfast show host, Alfie Joey.

Tickets for the concert cost £5 and are on sale now. Any residents wishing to purchase tickets can do so on this link: VE Day 80th Anniversary Concert | The Fire Station - Live Music, Theatre & Performance Venue

The celebrations will end on Keel Square with Lighting Lamplights of Peace, followed by the singing of 'I vow to thee my country'.

Further celebrations are taking place throughout the city with schools, care homes and community groups registering to join in. This includes their own flag raisings, VE Day crafts and street parties.

You can find out more about VE Day celebrations happening across Sunderland by visiting VE Day Celebrations - MySunderland or register your own event be emailing events@sunderland.gov.uk

Share your celebration photos and videos on social media by using the #SunderlandVEDay80