VETERANS and residents lined the streets of Harwich and Manningtree to mark the anniversary of the end of the Second World War in Europe.

VE Day services were staged at the war memorial in Main Road, Dovercourt, and in High Street, Manningtree, last Sunday, May 8.

Jamie Robinson, chairman of the Manningtree branch of the Royal British Legion, said plenty of people had turned out for the event, which marked the anniversary of Victory in Europe on May 8, 1945.

“The service in Manningtree went really well,” he said.

“We had about 60 people come along, which was a nice number and very good to see.”

Kerry King, president of the Manningtree branch of the Royal British Legion, took part in the poignant service, which was led by the Rev David Titley.

Readings and prayers were also read at the Dovercourt memorial on Sunday morning, where about 25 people gathered.

Two standard bearers represented both the Royal British Legion and the British Merchant Navy. Harwich mayor Dave McLeod added his tribute.

Rose Kirkham, secretary of the Harwich branch of the Royal British Legion, said the response of the town to VE Day was growing stronger .

“The day went well, the weather was absolutely lovely, which can only help,” she said.

“We don’t expect as many as perhaps Remembrance Day would bring, but the more we mark this day, the bigger it gets every year.

“VE Day must also be remembered as a vital and significant date, and serves as another chance to remember those who gave their lives.”

This year marked the 71st anniversary of the end of the Second World War in Europe.