As we mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, I want to reflect on the incredible efforts made by the people of Chester and our surrounding towns during the World War II. This city – our city – played a quiet but vital role in Britain’s victory, and it’s only right we honour the men and women, who gave so much in those extraordinary times. 

Chester, though spared the worst of the Blitz, was no stranger to air raid sirens. Between August 1940 and October 1941, 391 bombs fell within city boundaries. Yet through fear and hardship, our communities stood strong. Parkgate and Neston opened their school shelters to entire neighbourhoods. One story even tells of a parachute mine in Willaston spooking a mare into labour – her foal was named Blitz, a little symbol of hope born in dark times. 

We were a place of refuge, welcoming waves of evacuees from Guernsey, London, Merseyside, and beyond. Many children found safety and even joy here, recalling their wartime years with fondness. We also welcomed Allied forces, including Polish airmen at RAF Sealand, Czech troops at Cholmondeley Castle, and American allied troops who lodged with local families until D-Day. 

Our factories, too, became engines of war. Chester’s shadow factories like Carlux Electrical Services and Anchor Motors worked around the clock. But perhaps none stand out more than Williams & Williams on Liverpool Road – a powerhouse of production that famously made 48 million jerrycans, earning praise from President Roosevelt himself. These efforts, often led by women, were captured in the evocative artwork of the official war artist, Ethel Gabain, whose images remind us of the strength and spirit found here. These beautifully fascinating paintings can currently be seen at the Grosvenor Museum on Grosvenor Street. 

The Cheshire Regiment, the Cheshire Yeomanry, and our Home Guard units served across Europe, North Africa, and beyond – from Dunkirk to Malta, Italy to Normandy. Their bravery remains an essential part of our shared story. 

So this VE Day, I encourage everyone to pause, reflect, and celebrate. Visit our Cheshire Military Museum, join the local events, and remember the everyday heroes who helped bring peace to Europe. 

On behalf of Chester North and Neston, I wish everyone a joyful and reflective 80th VE Day anniversary.