Helen Maguire MP marks 80th Anniversary of VE Day with tributes in Epsom and Leatherhead
Liberal Democrat MP for Epsom & Ewell and former Captain of the Royal Military Police, Helen Maguire MP, joined VE Day celebrations in Epsom and Leatherhead today (Thursday 8 May, 2025) and has paid tribute to ex-servicemen and women from the Second World War.
Helen Maguire joined veterans, constituents, councillors and members of the Epsom & Ewell branch of the Royal British Legion at the Proclamation from His Majesty, King Charles III at Epsom Clock Tower in the morning, before joining a street party at the Swan Centre in Leatherhead. She also attended a beacon lighting event at Epsom Racecourse as the UK celebrates the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day (VE Day).
VE Day marks the formal acceptance by the Allies of World War II of Germany's unconditional surrender of its armed forces on Tuesday, 8 May 1945.
Liberal Democrat MP for Epsom & Ewell, Helen Maguire said:
“I want to pay tribute to all servicemen and women who so bravely stood up against Nazi Germany, giving everything on the frontline and at home, to ensure that Britain and our allies could successfully protect the freedoms we all enjoy today.
“As a veteran, I know firsthand the incredible bravery and dedication it takes to serve our country. The efforts and sacrifice of our British veterans must be honoured, cherished and never forgotten.
“It is a privilege to be celebrating this wonderful day in Epsom, which played a key role in the Outer London Defence Line and Leatherhead, which once served as home to hundreds of volunteers in the local Home Guard unit, Company F of the 6th Battalion.
“Whilst VE Day is certainly a cause for celebration, iIt also provides a timely reminder of horrors and atrocities of the Second World War. We must do everything to ensure that history does not repeat itself.
“As war rages on our continent, through Russia’s barbaric and illegal aggression in Ukraine, we must double down on our commitment to democracy and for peace in Europe once again.”