THE 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War will be celebrated with a day of activities in St Austell.

The town will be holding commemorations and celebrations on Thursday (August 14), the day before VJ (Victory over Japan) Day.

A spokesperson for St Austell Town Council told the Voice: “St Austell will be commemorating those who fell and whose families were affected by the outcomes but will also celebrate the end of the war in true 1940s fashion.

“The council, St Austell Business Improvement District (BID) and the White River Place shopping complex have planned a substantial and lively fun day.

“A parade of cadet organisations led by Kernow Pipes and Drums will set off at 10.30am from St John’s Methodist Church and will follow the Remembrance Day route to Holy Trinity Church. Wreaths will be laid by the Lord Lieutenant of Cornwall, the High Sheriff of Cornwall, the MP for St Austell and Newquay, the mayor of St Austell and the chairman of the Royal British Legion branch.

“Once the parade has been dismissed, Kernow Pipes and Drums followed by the Notability Community Choir will inspire all with musical renditions at Holy Trinity Church.

“Rides, displays, games, military hardware, activities and a raffle will also commence in White River Place from 10.30am.

“At midday, 1940s-style entertainment will begin in White River Place with the renowned band Company B (two sessions) along with the delightful Red Apple Honeys (two sessions). Dance sessions from Studio 4 and the St Austell Line Dancers will be included.

“All the rides and entertainment will be free. Donations will be welcomed, principally in aid of two charities, the Gover Valley Food Bank and A Band of Brothers Cornwall.”

Priory Car Park will be free on Thursday to encourage as many people as possible to attend the day.