Cohesion Plus and Dartford Borough Council Host Memorable 80th Anniversary VE Day Celebrations in Central Park

Hundreds of local residents gathered in Central Park on Sunday, 18th May, to commemorate the 80th Anniversary of VE Day at a vibrant community celebration jointly delivered by Cohesion Plus and Dartford Borough Council.

Running from 11am to 4pm, the free public event featured a rich programme of World War II-themed entertainment and activities designed to honour the historic day and bring the community together.

Dignitaries in attendance included the Lord Lieutenant of Kent, The Lady Colgrain; Mayor of Dartford, Peter Whapshott; and the Leader of Dartford Borough Council, Cllr Jeremy Kite who addressed the crowds and shared their own words around what VE Day meant to them as well as the of coming together as a community.

The event offered a nostalgic journey through the 1940s, with live musical performances of wartime classics, costumed WW2 actors, and a life-sized replica of a Spitfire aircraft providing striking visuals for families and history enthusiasts alike. Attendees also explored a vintage fire engine, a bomb disposal demonstration, and interactive exhibitions spotlighting the vital contributions of soldiers from across the Commonwealth.

Community engagement was at the heart of the day, with free refreshments provided by the Scouts, as well as face painting and colouring workshops keeping younger visitors entertained.

Gurvinder Sandher MBE DL, Artistic Director of Cohesion Plus, said:
“This event was about more than just remembrance—it was about bringing generations together to reflect, learn, and celebrate peace and unity. We are proud to have worked alongside Dartford Borough Council to deliver such a meaningful occasion that honoured the legacy of those who served during World War II.”

The VE Day celebration in Central Park was hailed as a resounding success, reflecting the strength of community spirit and shared history in Dartford.