VE Day 80th Celebration Rally – 8th to 11th May 2025, Lees Meadow

The Derbyshire Centre marked the 80th anniversary of VE Day with a special commemorative rally held from the 8th to the 11th of May at Lees Meadow, just outside Wirksworth. Blessed with fantastic weather throughout, the rally combined reflection, fun, community spirit, and a nostalgic look back at the 1940s.

Photo Credit: Scott Wanless

Thursday evening began in a respectful tone as ralliers gathered outside the events shelter for a moment of remembrance. A heartfelt homage read out by Howard Moorby was paid to the fallen, followed by a two-minute silence, which was beautifully broken by the sound of Reveille, played live by our own brass virtuoso, John Strutt.

Friday evening brought a cheerful social in the event shelter, featuring an amusing quiz all about famous people named John—causing plenty of head-scratching and laughter in equal measure.

Photo Credit: John Strutt

Saturday afternoon was the highlight for many, as the rally transformed into a lively 1940s street party. Set between the two rows of caravans, ralliers embraced the theme with authentic 1940s fancy dress and beautifully decorated tables inspired by the era. The food was just as nostalgic, with a spread that included dripping sandwiches, homity pie, corned beef fritters, and jelly with blancmange—evoking the tastes of wartime Britain.

Photo Credit: Zara Young

Prizes were awarded for the best-dressed table, as well as for the best-dressed man and woman in 1940s costume. The creativity and effort shown by ralliers truly brought the era to life.

Photo Credit: John Strutt

Photo Credit: John Strutt

The celebrations continued into Saturday evening with another fantastic night in the events shelter, full of music, dancing, and the warm camaraderie the Derbyshire Centre is known for.

From Friday through to Sunday, mornings began with hearty breakfasts served by Kate’s Café, which quickly became a much-loved part of the weekend.

It was a memorable weekend that honoured the past while celebrating the togetherness of the present—true Derbyshire Centre spirit through and through.