A 1940s LIVING room line dance, a ‘Best of British’ singalong and a virtual coffee morning are just some of the events lined up for people to help celebrate this weekend’s 75th anniversary of VE Day without leaving their homes.

A short video of pre-recorded key events from Craven’s armed forces community and civic leaders has been filmed at Skipton Castle, including performances on the bugle and bagpipes by Skipton air cadets, John and James Brown, and will be available on social media channels.

Friday is VE Day bank holiday and events marking the anniversary of the end of the Second World War in Europe would have taken place across the country for the entire weekend, but have had to be postponed, or cancelled, due to the coronavirus crisis.

But in Skipton, Skipton Business Improvement District (BID) and Skipton Town Council, are urging people to decorate their homes in red, white and blue, and celebrate the momentous event ‘at home’.

Councillor Richard Foster, leader of Craven District Council, said: “VE Day celebrations will be very different this year for everyone and it’s important that we all do our bit to stay home, protect the NHS and save lives. “However, we can all still remember the sacrifices made at home and abroad during World War Two, and celebrate the arrival of peace in Europe 75 years ago. “

He added: “I would like to thank the cooperation of Skipton Town Council and Skipton BID for making this possible. I’d also like to pay tribute to those millions at home and abroad, including many from Craven, who gave so much to ensure we all enjoy the freedom we share today.”

The anniversary film, which was shot behind closed doors, and with social distancing in place, includes a reading by the Rev Roger Lowans, of Holy Trinity Church of the prayer ‘Let us remember’ followed by the British Legion eulogy performed by Barry Blood of Skipton British Legion.

There is also a welcome address by Cllr Foster and a reading by Skipton Mayor, Cllr Peter Madeley, of the Cry for Peace around the World, the sounding of The Last Post, and the ceremonial laying of wreaths at the town’s war memorial at the top of the High Street.

People can join Jo Moseley, from Embsay, on her virtual climb of Mount Everest in her back yard, take part in a social coffee morning with Kibble Bakery, Skipton, or a 1940s living room line dance with Fire House Dance, or a Best of British sing-a-long with the Fleece Pub.

Many businesses are also offering special VE Day meals, drinks and hampers. A list of all the events taking place in Skipton can be seen on the Skipton BID Facebook page.