WATCH: Beacons light up Berwick and the Borders on VE Day
Last updated 9th May 2025
Beacons have been lit across the country to celebrate 80 years since the end of the Second World War in Europe.
The nation wide display was designed to recreate the jubilant scenes in 1945, when Germany surrendered to the Allies.
The Royal British Legion Pipe Band got proceedings underway in Berwick, where the town council's operations manager, Stephen Robinson, sparked the flames.
It followed a day of events to remember the bravery, courage and sacrifice made by the men and women from communities across the Scottish Borders and North Northumberland.
WATCH: Click on the link below to view our video report...
Wreath-laying ceremonies are also being held across the Scottish Borders and North Northumberland throughout the day to remember those who lost their lives in the conflict.
Elsewhere, a beacon is also being lit on the Ford and Etal Estate, while Selkirk Beaver Scouts are making Lamp Lights for Peace, which will be placed in the Remembrance Garden opposite the town’s War Memorial.
A special Drumhead Service of Remembrance will follow in Kelso at 1.30pm on Saturday - to avoid a clash with the national VE Day events.
From 12.30pm to 5pm, the town centre is being transformed into a military village as part of a series of celebrations, which will include a display of vintage vehicles and music from The Royal Regiment of Scotland band - with Hawick singer Alan Bryden; Kelso Pipes and Drums, and the Veterans Pipes and Drums of the King's Own Scottish Borderers.
The event in Kelso will be brought to a close with a Beating Retreat ceremony at Floors Castle at 6pm, with the salute being taken by The Duke of Roxburghe.
Sharing his thoughts, his Grace said: “It is both an honour and a privilege to be part of the commemoration for such an important day, both for the history of our nation and for Europe.
"It is personally poignant since I, and the past four generations of my family have served in the Armed Forces, with my Grandfather in the Second War and my Great Grandfather in the Boer and Great War.
"I am sure it will be a fantastic day for the town, and be a fitting tribute to the dedication, service and sacrifice of so many.”
For more stories from the Scottish Borders and North Northumberland, bookmark our new home page - https://hellorayo.co.uk/greatest-hits/borders/news/