Portsmouth was among the areas on the UK which took a battering with it being a significant target for the Luftwaffe during the blitz with more than 3,000 people killed or injured, and around a fifth of the city's houses destroyed or badly damaged.
But residents were in high spirits on May 8 1945 for VE and celebrated the end of the European fighting with street parties across the city. VJ Day, or Victory over Japan Day, on August 15, 1945 marked the official ending of the war.
Here we look back at images from 1945 when the city was celebrating VE Day and VJ Day:
25. Historic images during the end of Second World War
All the children and parents gather for the VE Day street party at Heidelberg Road, Southsea. | Contributed
26. Historic images during the end of Second World War
VE Day celebrations in Stanley Road, Stamshaw. | Mr Wilson Photo: Photo: Mr Wilson
27. Historic images during the end of Second World War
Families of Tipner Green celebrating VE Day | John Regnard Photo: John Regnard
28. Historic images during the end of Second World War
Crofton Avenue Portsmouth. Courtesy of Dennis Shrubsole | Courtesy of Dennis Shrubsole