Isle of Man VE Day concert and service announced

Plans for the Isle of Man to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the end of the World War Two in Europe have been revealed.

A free big band concert and military service will be held on 8 May at the Royal Hall at the Villa Marina between 19:00 BST and 21:00, with space for about 730 people and tickets available from the Villa Gaiety website.

Shortly afterwards, all are welcome to watch as a commemorative beacon will be lit up by Chief Minister Alfred Cannan in the grounds of the venue in Douglas.

Cannan said the event was an opportunity for the community to "come together in remembrance and gratitude" and to "pay tribute to the sacrifices made".

The event marks the day Nazi Germany surrendered to the Allies in 1945, bringing peace to Europe after nearly six years of war.

Local musicians, soloists, schoolchildren, clergy and the Royal British Legion will come together for the concert and service.

It will include music from the era and solo performances by local singers Paul Costain and Nicola O'Connor, alongside narrations by school pupils.

Led by the Royal British Legion, a traditional drumhead service will then follow.

The military religious service, which uses drums as a makeshift altar, will feature readings by Cannan and the island's Lieutenant Governor Sir John Lorimer.

Cannan said people were invited to join "a joyful big band experience and a moving commemoration service".

Beacons and Lamp Lights of Peace, including the beacon being lit at the event, will shine across the British Isles from 21:30 BST.

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