Brits will be able to raise a glass to our wartime heroes for two hours longer as part of next month’s 80th anniversary of VE Day.
In a patriotic move, boozers across England and Wales will be allowed to stay open until 1am on Thursday 8 May, as the country celebrates eight decades since Victory in Europe.
The usual 11pm closing time will be extended so revellers can toast the brave men and women who helped bring peace in 1945 — with street parties, parades and a huge televised concert all on the cards.
Pub licensing laws are being relaxed for the day, under rules that allow extended hours for events of “exceptional national significance”.
Similar moves have been made in the past for royal weddings, Jubilees, and major footie finals — with the extra time expected to give a boost to the struggling pub and hospitality industry.
Emma McClarkin, boss of the British Beer and Pub Association, said:
“This is a momentous occasion and, as the nation’s second home, the pub is the perfect place for communities to gather and raise a glass to all of those who made huge sacrifices for our freedom.
“Extending licensing hours will mean people can come together for longer, nurture community spirit, and allow pubs to host even more commemorative events that honour our veterans and heroes and celebrate peace.”
Kate Nicholls, chief exec of UKHospitality, added:
“The 80th anniversary of VE Day will see communities across the country come together to mark the special occasion, with many gathering in their local pubs to do so.
“I’m pleased the Government is extending licensing hours for the celebrations, which will see thousands raising a glass in tribute to those who served in the war.”
Michael Kill, from the Night Time Industries Association, said:
“As someone with a strong family background in the armed forces, I know how vital it is to honour the legacy of those who served.
“VE Day is not only a moment of remembrance but also an opportunity for communities to come together.
“At such a challenging time for the hospitality sector, allowing businesses to extend their trading hours during these celebrations offers a much-needed boost while paying tribute to our shared history.”
The VE Day bank holiday will kick off on Monday 5 May with commemorations at the Cenotaph, a military parade from Whitehall to Buckingham Palace, and a stunning RAF flypast over the capital.
The main event lands on Thursday 8 May, when more than 10,000 people are expected to pack out Horse Guards Parade in London for a star-studded concert, broadcast live on BBC One.
So whether it’s a pint for granddad, a cheers for the heroes, or just a good old knees-up, the nation is ready to say one thing loud and clear: Thank you, and bottoms up!
