Pubs to get extended opening hours for VE Day celebrations

Pubs are among venues that can extend their hours to celebrate the 75th anniversary of VE Day.

Venues serving alcohol that can trade until 11pm will be able to stay open for two hours later to mark the anniversary of Nazi Germany's unconditional surrender in the Second World War.

It comes following the government’s decision to move the early May bank holiday from Monday May 4, to VE Day on Friday, May 8.

Home Secretary Priti Patel, who laid the order before parliament to formally extend licensing hours, said: ‘VE Day events across the country will see the nation come together to pay tribute to the heroes who fought for our freedom and supported the war effort at home.

‘Pubs are at the heart of our communities and this is a great opportunity to raise a glass to mark this historic occasion.’

Second World War heroes given more time to join Britain's VE Day commemorations ...

The decision follows a consultation with representatives of licensing authorities, the police, the licensed trade, community groups, veterans’ organisations and the Welsh Government.

Licensing hours have been extended previously for the World Cup in 2014 and the Diamond Jubilee celebrations in 2012.

One of the biggest events will be VE Day 75 at London’s Royal Albert Hall.

It will feature the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, the Military Wives Choirs, celebrities VIPs and veterans. Even though the event has sold out, it will be screened live in more than 400 cinemas nationwide.

Further details of the UK Government’s commemorations for VE Day will be announced by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport.