80th Anniversary of Liberation

Description

2025 is the 80th anniversary of Liberation Day in Guernsey, commemorating the island’s freedom from German Occupation.

Following months of preparations, a day of commemoration and community celebration takes place on 9 May 2025. Helen Glencross, Head of Heritage Services for the States of Guernsey, and Chair of the Oversight Board for Liberation Day 2025, tells us more about the plans:-

“The morning of Liberation Day is traditionally one of commemoration. The annual Parade will march at 11.00am and be led by The Band of HM Royal Marines, Scotland. The Parade will include contingents from the Princess of Wales Royal Regiment, HMS Daring and ‘Guernsey’s Own’ 201 Squadron alongside the Chelsea Pensioners, Ghurkas, local uniformed youth organisations and a contingent of local veterans.

“Following the formalities, a series of celebrations are planned across the island. In St Peter Port, North Beach will feature live entertainment from the UK and local acts, along with stallholders and charities’ pitches. Crown Pier will be transformed into a free children’s zone, with the centrepiece showcasing a vintage fair with carousel, chair-o-plane and helter skelter.

“St Peter Port will also host a Heritage Trail featuring a series of Occupation and Liberation themed exhibitions and displays including the George Crossan Gallery, Island Archives, the Guilles Alles Library, The Royal Court, The Priaulx Library and Guernsey Museum at Candie.

“The Cavalcade will arrive in St Peter Port from 2.30pm led by pedestrians, bicycles and wheelchairs and will be followed by the military vehicles, vintage cars, tractors and community floats celebrating Guernsey’s history and community spirit. “A fantastic fireworks finale will mark the traditional end of the day’s celebrations on the island.”

Guernsey Post is proud to issue stamps marking this poignant milestone, which depict articles across the timeframe of the Occupation in 1940 to the Liberation and Recovery of the island in 1945.

With special thanks to Guernsey Museums for its assistance, access to its research and images for the items held in its collections.

Specification