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The government has announced that the Early May Bank Holiday in 2020 will move from Monday 4 May to Friday 8 May to mark the 75th anniversary of VE Day which takes place on 8 May.
This is only the second time ever that the Early May Bank Holiday has been moved – the first was in 1995 to mark the 50th anniversary of VE Day.
VE Day will remember the contribution of British, Commonwealth and Allied armed forces personnel; those who contributed to the war effort and safeguarded the Home Front.
As well as marking the Allies’ victory in 1945, the bank holiday will serve as an opportunity to pay tribute to those who have served and continue to serve in the UK Armed Forces and their families.
Commemorative events will take place over the 3-day weekend across the country, the government announced.
They will include more than 20,000 pubs encouraging people to toast the heroes of the war, with churches due to take part in a Ringing Out For Peace.
"VE Day marked an historic moment in not only our nation’s, but the world’s history and it is important that we commemorate this great occasion on its 75th anniversary. Honouring those who did their duty – whether on the battlefields of Europe or through their efforts and sacrifices here at home," Business Secretary Greg Clark said.
VE Day was first celebrated on 8 May 1945 when Allied Forces formally accepted Germany’s surrender.