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At 3pm on 8 May 1945, Prime Minister, Winston Churchill announced that the war in Europe
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At 3pm on 8 May 1945, Prime Minister, Winston Churchill announced that the war in Europe
At 3pm on 8 May 1945, Prime Minister, Winston Churchill announced that the war in Europe would end at midnight. London erupted into a massive chorus of jubilation and celebration. Mr Churchill was greeted by huge cheering crowds wherever he went and the King was kept busy by a crowd outside Buckingham Palace who made him keep returning to the balcony to receive their accolades. Even his own daughters, escorted by Palace guards, joined the crowd in shouting for the King. All licensing laws in the capital were revoked for the evening and the celebrations went on well into the small hours.
Our Picture Shows: The National Portrait Gallery in Trafalgar Square is floodlit for the VE celebrations
London Night Time
VE Day
May 1945
George Greenwell
mirrorpix
London
Greater London
England
WA*3104285
Media ID 21549320
© Mirrorpix
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the electrifying atmosphere in London on VE Day, May 8th, 1945. As the clock struck 3 pm, Prime Minister Winston Churchill's announcement that the war in Europe would end at midnight ignited an explosion of joy throughout the city. The image showcases Trafalgar Square's iconic National Portrait Gallery illuminated by floodlights, symbolizing hope and victory. Londoners poured into the streets to join a massive chorus of jubilation and celebration. Wherever Churchill went, he was greeted by huge cheering crowds who hailed him as a hero. Buckingham Palace became a focal point for revelry as King George VI repeatedly appeared on its balcony to receive accolades from an ecstatic crowd that refused to disperse. Even his own daughters joined in this historic moment, escorted by Palace guards and shouting alongside fellow citizens for their beloved king. As darkness fell over London, all licensing laws were revoked for the evening, allowing festivities to continue well into the small hours. George Greenwell's photograph immortalizes this extraordinary night when London shone with unbridled happiness and relief after years of hardship during World War II. It serves as a poignant reminder of unity and resilience while honoring those who sacrificed so much for freedom.
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