ANYONE planning a street party to celebrate Victory in Europe Day (VE Day) in North Somerset is being urged to apply for road closures now.

The 80th anniversary of VE Day – when the Allies were victorious over the Nazis in Europe – is being marked with four days of national events across the UK.

The May Day bank holiday on Monday, May 5, is being dedicated to nationwide community celebrations and North Somerset Council is advising local residents and communities to plan ahead.

The council will not charge any fees for traffic orders relating to temporary road closures for communities who are organising street parties, barbeques or get togethers to mark the anniversary.

However, applications must be made by Sunday, March 23.

“This is a chance for us all to come together to honour and pay tribute to the Second World War generation from across the UK and Commonwealth” said Cllr Mike Bell, leader of the council.

“The 75th anniversary came during the first lockdown and covid restrictions, so people did their bit to celebrate and commemorate the event at home. But I really hope that for VE Day 80, neighbours and communities will be able to join together to enjoy food and music, echoing the celebrations that rang out across our nation 80 years ago.

“We’ve made it as easy as possible to apply for a road closure so people can host street parties. There are some safety and legal considerations that need to be in place. We’re asking people to apply in good time so that we can carry out the necessary work behind the scenes.”

More information about how to apply for a road closure is available on the council’s website at www.n-somerset.gov.uk/veday80streetparty.

For more about VE Day 80, along with ideas on how to get involved and an interactive map showing events happening across the UK, visit ve-vjday80.gov.uk.