Marking the 80th anniversary of VE Day on Thursday 8 May, signalling eight decades since the end of the Second World War in Europe, Bryanston’s commemorations include a two-minute silence across the whole school, a special performance of ‘We’ll Meet Again’ and a dedicated assembly led by History Teacher and former British Army Officer, Simon Vincent.
On 8 May 1945, Victory in Europe Day (VE Day) marked the end of nearly six years of war in Europe. On this day in 1945, Bryanston organised for a lit ‘V’ to be placed on the roof (main image pictured above). This was made from four ranks of stage floodlights from the gym theatre and were the first lights shown after six years of the black-out. They were said to have been seen from as far away as Wimborne!
A two-minute silence was held at 12 noon across the whole school, to remember and thank those who fought for our freedom.
Earlier today, Oliver H and Sancha H played ‘We’ll Meet Again’ on violin. This special performance took place with the backdrop of the terrace, where names are inscribed to remember OBs who served and sacrificed.
Bryanston’s Book of Remembrance is a special publication which has been many years in the planning and pays tribute to 92 Old Bryanstonians who gave their lives during World War 2 and in the following years to 1954.
Archivist Laura Sweetenham commented: “The book honours Bryanston’s wartime heroes and shares their personal stories of bravery and sacrifice. Aptly timed to mark the anniversary of VE Day, the book has gone on sale this week and shares personal stories of their time at Bryanston, moving accounts of their courage and their ultimate sacrifice, whilst providing an account of Bryanston over those years.”
Copies can be purchased for £30 (plus £4 postage and packaging) and can be ordered through [email protected].
