Kelso will mark the 80th Anniversary of VE Day with a community event. The Border town and Floors Castle is inviting residents and visitors to come along and join in.
A series of events will be held throughout the day in Kelso Square followed by a public performance by the Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland and the Kings Own Scottish Borderers Veterans Pipe Band at Floors Castle.
Celebrations taking place in Kelso square:
1330: Parade by veterans and cadets accompanied by the Military Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland, the Veterans Pipes and Drums of the King's Own Scottish Borderers and Kelso Pipe Band. The Parade will include a Drumhead Service of Remembrance led by military padre, Rev Stephen Blakey.
Community singing, led by Alan Bryden.
Live music by the Kelso Pipe Band followed by the Royal Regiment Band.
1700: events in the Square will conclude, and move to Floors Castle which residents and visitors are invited to attend.
1800: Floors Castle Beating Retreat ceremony, with the salute taken by His Grace, The Duke of Roxburghe. Performance featuring the Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland and the Kings Own Scottish Borderers Veterans Pipe Band.
During the celebration in Kelso Square, you can explore the Military Village which will be open from 1230pm and will feature information stands, equipment and attractions delivered by serving Army personnel, The Kings Own Scottish Borderers VE Day 80 museum, staff and volunteers from SSAFA Soldiers', Sailors', and Airmen's Families Association, the Armed Forces charity, The Royal British Legion, Erskine Veterans Charity and Help for Heroes.
A selection of 1940s vintage vehicles will also be on display and shop and business owners have been encouraged to decorate their windows with WW2 themes.
At the centre of the celebrations is Kelso Town Hall, with its balconies adorned with the iconic red poppy.
Councillor Watson McAteer, Convener of Scottish Borders Council said:
"As we prepare to commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE Day, it is important to remember the sacrifices made by so many during World War II, and a profound honour to celebrate the bravery of those who served.
“Kelso's rich history and community spirit make it a fitting place for this commemoration. I look forward to seeing residents and visitors join us for this significant occasion."
Lieutenant General John Cooper of the King's Own Scottish Borderers said:
“It is an honour to be involved in the VE Day 80th Anniversary Commemoration events in Kelso.
“Our own local Regiment, The King's Own Scottish Borderers fought in Europe in 1940 and then five of our battalions advanced from Normandy to the Baltic in the liberation of Europe in 1944-45.
“We suffered 1,099 men killed and many thousands more wounded in Europe. We will commemorate not only those fallen Borderers but all those killed in Europe, including from our sister Regiments, the men and women of The Royal Navy, The Royal Air Force, our Allies and the many millions of civilians who perished. They died for our democratic way of life and for the freedom we enjoy today.”
To further underscore the significance of the VE Day 80th Anniversary Commemoration, on hosting the closing of the event at Floors Castle
the Duke of Roxburghe shared his thoughts:
“The family and the whole team here at Floors Castle are excited to host the culmination of the VE Day celebrations for the Scottish Borders.
“It is both an honour and a privilege to be part of the commemoration for such an important day, both for the history of our nation and for Europe. It is personally poignant since I, and the past four generations of my family have served in the Armed Forces, with my Grandfather in the Second War and my Great Grandfather in the Boer and Great War. I am sure it will be a fantastic day for the town, and be a fitting tribute to the dedication, service and sacrifice of so many.”
His heartfelt words reflect a deep connection to the history and sacrifices of those who served, making the event at Floors Castle especially meaningful.
How to take part
Put the date in your diary and join the commemorative event in Kelso Town Square and Floors Castle – dressing in the fashion of the 40’s is encouraged but entirely optional.
If you have any queries relating to the event, parking restrictions or road closures please email communityengagement@scotborders.gov.uk
Information about the event and notice of temporary road and car park closures, and alternative routes to take to avoid the town centre during the event go to our VE Day 80th Anniversary | Scottish Borders Council web page.