We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who joined us for the Victory Day celebrations in Biggleswade’s Market Square on Saturday 5th July 2025. It was a truly memorable day filled with community spirit, heartfelt remembrance, and joyful celebration.
Throughout the day, the square came alive with the sounds of music, the bustle of stalls, and the warmth of shared stories and laughter. None of this would have been possible without the incredible support of our local performers, volunteers, community groups, and traders — your energy and enthusiasm brought the event to life. A special mention must go to our wonderful MC, Danielle Reales, whose presence made the day all the more special.
We were honoured to welcome Mayor Cllr Jonathan Woodhead, Members and Officers of Biggleswade Town Council, and visiting dignitaries from our twinned towns of Erlensee. Biggleswade hopes to twin with Bailly, Noisy-le-Roi, in France at a later stage; however we will pleased and honoured that dignitaries from these towns were able to celebrate with us. Their presence was a powerful reminder of the enduring friendships between our communities — friendships forged in history and strengthened through ongoing connection and mutual respect.
A particularly touching moment of the day was the ceremonial planting of a Ginkgo Tree, generously gifted by our friends in Erlensee. Planted at Kitelands Recreation Ground by Erlensee’s Deputy Mayor, Mrs Renate Tonecker-Bos, alongside Mayor Jonathan Woodhead and Councillor Madeline Russell, the tree stands as a living symbol of international friendship and peace.
Adding a touch of 1940s magic to the occasion, so many attendees embraced the spirit of the era with fabulous vintage outfits — from military uniforms to classic dresses — transporting us all back in time. Their attention to detail and enthusiasm helped create an atmosphere that was both authentic and joyous.
Perhaps the most moving reminder of why we celebrate came from a local resident, Sibby Ann, who shared this touching reflection:
“Hello, I just wanted to say thank you for today. My nan, Rita Smith, celebrated Victory Day on Market Square in 1945. She’s in the picture – and now, 80 years later, my girls celebrated Victory Day on the same Market Square thanks to your event. It was such a lovely day. We never got to meet her as she died when my mum was very young, so it was a really special moment to be able to be in our hometown celebrating the same event in history. Thanks again – I even managed to get a copy of the booklet with her picture in it, so it was a truly amazing day.”
Stories like this remind us why events like Victory Day matter — they connect generations, honour those who came before us, and allow us to create new memories together as a community.
Thank you, once again, to everyone who made the day so meaningful. Whether you danced in the square, dressed up, volunteered, or simply came along to show your support, you played a part in a very special moment in Biggleswade’s history.
Here’s to friendship, remembrance, and the power of coming together.
For more photos from the event, please see our photo gallery here.
Photo credits to Richard Southan and Biggleswade Town Council.