VE Day 80 Celebrations In Coleraine Draw Thousands

Thousands gathered in Coleraine on the evening of 8 May to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, with a programme of events described as both moving and exceptionally well delivered.

A report due to be presented to councillors tomorrow evening at the Commemoration and Celebration Sub-Committee confirms that the VE Day 80 event drew a footfall of 5,699 between 5:00pm and 11:00pm.

Coleraine Town Hall proved a fitting venue, with the stage set in the main entertainment space. Proceedings began at 6:30pm following the ringing of church bells, and continued with a full programme of music and commemorative activity. Later in the evening, attendees made their way to the Cenotaph opposite the Town Hall to witness the arrival of the Parade, followed by the Act of Remembrance and the lighting of the Beacon.

The event coincided with a race day at the North West 200. In a moment of shared tribute, organisers arranged a minute’s silence before racing began, with riders and officials invited to the front of the grid in recognition of VE Day.

Feedback from those attending has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the event’s organisation and atmosphere.

At the Corporate Policy and Resources Committee Meeting on 27 May, councillors formally recorded their thanks to staff and volunteers involved in the planning and delivery of what was widely regarded as an outstanding commemorative event.

While the recorded footfall stood at 5,699, it is worth noting that counters, commonly used to measure attendance, may register the same individual multiple times if they move through the area repeatedly. The figure therefore offers a strong indicator of foot traffic, though not a precise headcount.