Pubs to stay open later to the 80 -year anniversary

Pubs in England and Wales can remain open until 01:00 BST to mark the 80th birthday of Ve Day, the government has confirmed.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has said that pubs and bars that usually close at 23:00 can continue to serve on Thursday 8 May for an extra two hours.

“Keeping our pubs open longer gives people the chance to participate in parties and cancel a glass for all men and women who have served their country, both abroad and at home,” said Sir Keir.

Similar extensions such as hours of the PUC were used on Ve Day -Jubilea in previous years, as well as large royal parties and important sporting events such as the Euro 2024 final.

A day – or victory in Europe Day – is celebrated every year on 8 May to mark the unconditional surrender of Nazi Germany to allied troops in the Second World War.

The prime minister said that the whole country should come together this coming day to “remember” the incredible sacrifices that made the generation in wartime and for the peace and freedom they have secured for all of us “.

The home office takes an order for the parliament for approval to deliver the change in hours.

The longer opening hours are welcomed by the hospitality industry.

Michael Kill, Chief Executive of the Night Time Industries Association, said that the day was not only a moment of memory, but also an opportunity to come together.

“In such a challenging time for the catering sector, companies to extend their trade hours during these parties offers a much needed boost, while they pay tribute to our shared history,” he said.

Emma McClarkin, Chief Executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, described Pubs as “The Nation’s Second Home” and the “perfect place for communities to collect and lift a glass for anyone who made huge sacrifices for our freedom”.

Commemorations for this year’s VE Day will start on 5 May on May 5 on May 5, with a military procession from Whitehall to Buckingham Palace and a RAF flypast over London.

Dan, on 8 May, there will be a service of Thanksgiving in Westminster Abbey for a live concert by Horse Guards Parade, which is expected to be present more than 10,000 members of the public.

Every event is broadcast live on BBC One.