Non-stop flood-lit dancing, with the dance bands on a flood-lit wagon, and community singing, led by Mr B G Lampard-Vachell, were some of Torrington’s expressions of joy at the VE Day proclamation.

Torridge Vale Dairies Illuminations presented an especially pretty picture, and a hug bonfire was lit at St Giles on VE night by Sgt T Hocking, who only the day previous had returned from prisoner-of-war camp in Germany.

Torrington certainly made up for the disappointment caused by the inclement weather of May Fair. Streets, etc. were profusely decorated and various celebrations including floral and maypole dancing, which on VE Day-2 was all the more enjoyed by the addition of fancy dress, took place on both days. Local bands and others gave their talented services and there was no stinting of music and jollity.

A formal announcement of the cessation of the European War was made at noon on Tuesday in the Square to a large gathering of townspeople by the Mayor of Torrington (Ald L S Hutchings) who attend in state accompanied by other civic representatives.

Mayor’s Address

‘The long-awaited day has not arrived: the terrible was in Europe is over and the United Nations today rejoice in victory over an enemy who for years has violated not only the conditions of warfare but had perpetrated crime which have shocked the civilised world’ declared his worship.

In their rejoicing they remember there was still the task of defeating Japan, but this would be done with the same determination and resolution.

Torrington had been delighted to welcome home local boys who had been prisoners of war in Europe and devoutly hoped to have the opportunity of expressing richly deserved measure of their gratitude.

As Mayor he wished to pay tribute to all sections of Civil Defence and war organisations. They had given of their services unstintingly and had been always ready but they were thankful they had been spared the devastation that befell many places. On this great day they did not forget the fallen, those who had made the supreme sacrifice that others might live.

This was followed by a short open-air thanksgiving service, conducted by the Vicar (Rev C J Barker), music being provided by the Home Guard band. An address was given by the Rev A J Adams, President of the Free Church Council. Other thanksgiving services took place on the evening of VE Day at the Methodist and Baptist Churches, and evensong took place at the Parish Church.

Presentation

A huge Union Jack presented by the glove-workers of Messrs James Tapscott and Sons, Ltd was handed by Mr Charles Ebsworthy to the Mayor, who received it on behalf of the Borough. The flag described by the donors as ‘a token of gratitude not only to our local men and women but to all who have made the supreme sacrifice’. It was afterwards flown outside the Town Hall.

The celebrations continued on Saturday night with more dancing in the streets, including fancy address. The Mayor and Mayoress were among those participating.

Gazette article dated 15 May 1945