
The Barry War Museum and Heritage Centre is preparing to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day with two special events.
A special afternoon tea for the town's senior citizens will be held on the anniversary itself - Thursday 8th May - featuring live performances of wartime songs.
Author and broadcaster Phil Carradice will also be joining the celebrations by reading extracts from his books of wartime experiences and memories, while the museum's team of historical reenactors aim to recreate the victorious wartime spirit.
A public open day will also be held on Sunday featuring more live music - with period patriotic songs from Stephanie Edwards and the 'Hot Gin Duo', aka Mark & Louise.
Glenn Booker, chair of the Barry at War group, which runs the museum, said: "Our VE Day celebrations remembered the stories and sacrifices made by former generations so we today can enjoy freedom and liberty It will be a true honour and great pleasure to welcome our special guests and to mark a momentous occasion in our history."
The museum, based at Barry Island railway station, pointed to one incident as to why VE Day celebrations were needed.
A spokepserson said: "Last year, a museum volunteer dressed in a World War Two Home Guard uniform was putting up a banner for the VE Day celebrations...when two young ladies walking past, without any hint of irony passing by called him a ‘fascist!’. That’s why we need to celebrate VE Day."
Anyone interested in helping out at the museum can email bawmsocialmedia@gmail.com or visit the Barry War Museum website.