WARRINGTON’S role in the Second World War will be remembered through a programme of ‘live’ and online events later this month.

In March, Warrington Borough Council was granted an award of £9,900 from the National Lottery Heritage Fund to mark the 75th anniversary of VE (Victory in Europe) Day, with a series of town centre events planned.

But, the Covid-19 restrictions meant that these events, scheduled for May, could not take place.

Now, with the easing of some restrictions, Culture Warrington, Warrington BID, Ludovico and Technically Brilliant Art are working in partnership with the council to deliver a series of safe town centre activities.

The commemorations will take place on Saturday, August 15, to coincide with the 75th anniversary of VJ (Victory over Japan) Day, in Warrington town centre.

There will be a combination of ‘live’ and online events, with no static exhibition or activity which might encourage people to congregate in a space at one time.

Activities, under the theme of ‘Warrington Time Machine’, will include monologues filmed at Walton Hall, an online heritage trail around the town, a pop-up window display and a Delorian car.

Mayor of Warrington, cllr Wendy Johnson, said: "In this milestone year for VE Day and VJ Day, I’m delighted that we are able to host these fantastic heritage events and activities.

"I’m looking forward to them instilling a real sense of pride and community spirit among local people and providing a deeper understanding of the key role Warrington played in the Second World War."

Warrington Borough Council’s cabinet member responsible for culture, cllr Maureen McLaughlin, said: "While there are restrictions on how we mark VE Day and VJ Day, it’s great news that we have been able to put together a diverse and safe programme of activities to commemorate these events.

"With more and more residents returning to the town centre, I hope we will we will be able to connect with a wide range of people, engaging them in these important stories of Warrington’s past."

Cabinet member for leisure and community, cllr Tony Higgins, added: "We want to give our communities every opportunity to mark these important events, and these special displays, exhibitions and performances are a fantastic way of doing that.

"We want to bring people of all ages together to remember this significant period in our history and the sacrifices made by so many people, from Warrington and beyond."