NEWQUAY Town Council has come under fire after being accused of putting in “minimal effort” to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day.

Newquay Veterans and Newquay Royal British Legion Branch believe the authority’s flag raising ceremony held at St Michael’s Church on Thursday, May 8 did not adequately honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

They argue the commemoration events organised by the town council did not match the celebrations held in other towns across Cornwall, which included street parties and the national beacon lighting ceremony.

Newquay Her Majesty's Armed Forces Veterans and the Newquay Royal British Legion Branch are now calling on the authority to organise a fitting event to mark the 80th anniversary of VJ Day on August, 15, which commemorates the official surrender of Japan to the Allied forces on August 15, 1945, marking the end of World War II.

In a letter to the town council, the veterans groups said: “We are writing on behalf of the Newquay Branch of the Royal British Legion and the veterans' community in Newquay to express our disappointment regarding the recent VE Day 80th anniversary celebrations.

“It was disheartening to observe the minimal effort put forth by the Newquay Town Council, especially when compared to the vibrant celebrations held in other towns across Cornwall, which included street parties, events, and also the National Beacon lighting ceremony.

“In contrast, Newquay's commemoration was limited to a flag-raising ceremony, which we believe did not adequately honour those who sacrificed so much for victory in Europe 80 years ago.

“We have an upcoming opportunity on August 15, which marks Victory over Japan Day and the end of World War II.

“We urge you to focus attention and resources on organising an event that befits this historic occasion. While we recognise the financial constraints that exist in today's society, we firmly believe that investing time and effort into a VJ Day 80th anniversary event would be invaluable in fostering community spirit and garnering the support of the veteran community here in Newquay.

“We look forward to your positive response and are eager to collaborate on creating a memorable and respectful event.”

Mayor Drew Creek believes the flag raising ceremony was “well observed.”

The gathering enjoyed light refreshments at the Newquay Town Council offices following the flag raising ceremony.

Cllr Creek said: “The town council has always worked with the Newquay RBL Branch and we were pleased with the flag raising ceremony, which was attended by representatives from the RBL and RAF St Mawgan among others. We felt it was well observed.

“We were also pleased to see that the Royal British Legion Cornwall branch staged a wreath laying ceremony at the RBL Woodlands at Nansledan but due to other commitments I was unable to attend that event.

“The town council’s event co-ordinator is looking forward to working with the Newquay RBL Branch to stage events to mark the 80th anniversary of VJ Day.”