Celebrations of VJ Day in West Bay in August 1945

15 August 2020 is the 75th anniversary of VJ Day, marking both the surrender of Japan and the end of the Second World War. The brutal conflict in the Pacific had dragged on for four months after the allied victory in Europe. The surrender of the Japanese Government finally came after the US dropped nuclear bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki with devastating results. Throughout the world the end of the war was greeted by celebrations. People came out of the streets and held parties.

West Bay was seemingly no different – these photos capture some of the local celebrations.

Jo Hawker who kindly allowed us to use these photos says her granny made fancy dress for her from old curtains and blackout material. Arthur Watson remembers being present at the tea-party. If anyone has more information to share about VJ Day celebrations in Bridport and West Bay please share it with us !

After the party is looks as if the children were treated to a boat trip, without the safety precautions we have in place today!

If anyone has more information to share about VJ Day celebrations in Bridport and West Bay please share it with us !
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