NEXT YEAR’S May Fayre is still going ahead, despite the Government moving the bank holiday to help the country mark the 75th anniversary of VE Day.
Instead of the nation enjoying the May Day holiday on Monday, May 4, in 2020 there will be a one-off bank holiday on Friday, May 8. The aim is to allow people to pay tribute to those who served in the Second World War.
The day, known as Victory in Europe Day, will remember the contribution of British, Commonwealth and Allied armed forces personnel; those who contributed to the war effort and safeguarded the Home Front.
As well as marking the Allies’ victory in 1945, the bank holiday will serve as an opportunity to pay tribute to those who have served and continue to serve in the UK Armed Forces and their families.
It will be a three-day weekend and planned events include seeing 20,000 pubs holding a toast to the Second World War heroes, as well as bell-ringing, street parties and bagpipers playing at the four highest peaks in the UK.
Business Secretary Greg Clark said: “VE Day marked an historic moment in not only our nation’s, but the world’s history and it is important that we commemorate this great occasion on its 75th anniversary. Honouring those who did their duty – whether on the battlefields of Europe or through their efforts and sacrifices here at home.
“Moving next year’s early May bank holiday to VE Day itself is a right and fitting tribute. It will ensure as many people as possible have the opportunity to remember and honour our heroes of the Second World War and reflect on the sacrifices of a generation.”
But the move gives Wokingham Lions, which organises the annual May Fayre, a headache. The event has run on bank holiday Monday for more than two decades and next year’s event will be the first to use the revamped Elms Field.
Organisers are now making fresh plans to ensure that the event, which raises thousands for charity each year, continues.
Ian Grange, who is organising the event for the Lions, said: “I can confirm that the May Fayre will still be going ahead – we’re already talking to Wokingham Town Council about what the change of bank holiday date will mean for the event, but Wokingham Lions are still planning to deliver another fun-filled day, raising funds for local good causes as we have done for 25 years.”
