Ross-shire bells to toll for 75th anniversary of VE Day; Lord Lieutenant of Ross and Cromarty says country can rally to fight 'very different' enemy
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POIGNANT acts of remembrance will today be observed quietly across Ross-shire to mark the 75th anniversary of VE Day at a time the county faces a "very different enemy".
Victory in Europe Day marks the formal acceptance of Nazi Germany’s unconditional surrender of its armed forces on May 8, 1945 ending World War II in Europe.
In the absence of church services and public acts of remembrance because of restrictions related to the coronavirus lockdown, people will observe the mark the occasion in a variety of very personal ways.
Ross and Cromarty's Lord Lieutenant Joanie Whiteford, the Queen's representative in the area, said: "So many young men from our Highland and Island communities lost their lives fighting for their country, hence leaving so many grieving for loved ones.
"Now we remember VE day during another very difficult period for our country. We are remembering all those who served to win our peace, and all those who gave the greatest sacrifice for our freedom. Yet this is time when we are facing different threats."
Speaking after a visit to the Hill of Fearn War Memorial this week, she said: "More than ever, it is good to remember we have been through difficult times before, and we got through by working together. Whilst the enemy is very different, our army this time is our wonderful NHS and all our essential workers.
"Let us stand together today to remember those brave soldiers who endured horrific conditions to
win us our freedom."
A number of churches will ring their bells at 11.02am in an act of remembrance, amongst them St Andrews Episcopal Church in Tain, Nigg Old, Fearn Abbey and Dornoch Cathedral.
Related: Poppyscotland outlines plans for a very different VE Day
Highland public urged to support VE Day online
