TAB Ambassadors Play Key Role in VE Day 80th Anniversary Celebrations

As part of my role at The Abingdon Bridge (TAB), I’m always looking for ways to help strengthen connections within our community. This month offered a particularly special opportunity, as we took part in a significant moment in Abingdon’s history — the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day.

Two of our amazing TAB Ambassadors, Zach and Amber, played central roles in the preparations and commemorations, proudly representing both the town and our charity.

Building Up to the Big Day

In the weeks leading up to the celebration, Zach and Amber worked alongside the Town Council to help raise awareness. They delivered posters to local businesses to promote the event and supported efforts to make the town feel festive and respectful of the occasion.

Our Thursday Arts Therapy group also joined in, creating handmade bunting to decorate the outside of 19 Bridge Street — TAB’s home. The atmosphere was already starting to build.

Amber and fellow young person Erin took their commitment a step further by participating in a rehearsal on the rooftop of the County Hall. Their role was to help ensure the flag-raising ceremony on the day would be seen and heard clearly across the Market Place.

A Moment to Remember

On the morning of 8th May at 9am, Zach and Amber joined councillors and the town crier atop County Hall for the official flag-raising ceremony. Fitzharrys School kindly granted time for both students to be involved in this civic moment, allowing them to take part in an event they’ll never forget.

Later that day, we joined the community at the war memorial for a moving ceremony that included a two-minute silence in honour of all those who served and sacrificed during World War II.

It was a great privilege to have Felicity Dick, the King's representative in Oxfordshire, commend Zach and Amber personally for their dedication and involvement in the day’s events. Their pride in our town and its history was evident, and contagious!

Honouring the Past, Inspiring the Future

Zach and Amber are more than just volunteers — they’re Ambassadors for TAB. That means they not only benefit from the support we offer at The Abingdon Bridge but have also committed to giving back, supporting their peers and strengthening community ties.

During the day, BBC Sounds reported live from the event and took the time to interview us about TAB’s involvement. It was a wonderful chance to reflect on the stories of our grandparents and great-grandparents and to share how their courage continues to inspire young people today.

Community at the Core

This was more than a ceremony. It was a day of shared memory, service, and celebration — a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when young people are given the opportunity to lead and contribute.

At TAB, we believe in empowering young people to become confident, compassionate community members. Zach and Amber exemplify this vision, and we couldn’t be prouder of their role in this historic day.