Memorial tree planted at Bury Cemetery to mark 80 years since VJ Day

Saturday, 16 August 2025 08:10

By David Murphy

A commemorative tree was planted by the Commonwealth War Graves area during Friday’s tributes to the end of the Second World War.

A memorial tree was planted on Friday, 15 August, at Bury Cemetery as part of local events marking the 80th anniversary of VJ Day.

The planting took place by the Commonwealth War Graves section of the cemetery at 11.45am and was timed to coincide with the national two-minute silence at midday.

The tribute formed part of wider commemorations across Bury and the UK to remember those who served in the Far East during the Second World War.

VJ Day marks the surrender of Japan and the official end of the war in 1945. It followed months after VE Day and ended six years of global conflict.

In a national address, King Charles paid tribute to veterans and acknowledged the hardship faced by both military personnel and civilians during the final stages of the war.

A national remembrance service was also held at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, attended by the King, Queen, Prime Minister, and surviving veterans.

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