Friday 15th August was the 80th Anniversary of Victory over Japan Day (VJ Day). The Ashby Branch of the Royal British Legion held a short service at the War Memorial to mark the day in 1945 when Japan surrendered to Allied forces, effectively ending World War II. 

A statement from the Ashby Branch of the Royal British Legion said: 'Friday 15th Augst saw [...] the 80th Anniversary of the cessation of fighting with Japan, ending the final phase of World War Two, which saw the horrific demise of so many of our allies, men and women, including troops from all parts of the globe and, of course, the British Empire and Great Britain. 

'It is acknowledged that the use of Atomic Weapons resulted in the further loss of life on both sides of the conflict. 

The Mayor of Ashby and President of Ashby Royal British Legion laid wreaths during the ceremony (Photo: Cllr Ojuir)

'The event saw over 30 Royal British Legion Members and members of the public and Ashby Town Council in attendance, which was presided over by officers from the branch including committee member Brian Senton, Branch Chairman Cllr Dan Harrison and President Stuart Allan.' 

Those in attendance gathered at 11.40am for a short service at the War Memorial, followed by a Nationwide two-minutes silence at noon for reflection and remembrance.

Cllr Damilola Ojuri, Mayor of Ashby, who laid a wreath at the war memorial with Stuart Allen, said: 'May we never forget the cost of peace, and may we work to preserve it for generations to come.'