Commemorating VJ 80 in Girvan
On Saturday, 16th August. the Girvan community came together for a truly special occasion: an afternoon tea to mark the 80th anniversary of VJ Day and to remember those who never came home.
Many thanks to Girvan and District War Project for allowing us to use their images from the day
Hosted by Girvan and District Great War Project, in partnership with Girvan Town Team, Girvan Community Garden, and Cosy Spaces, the event welcomed more than 100 people, including dignitaries and both national and local representatives.
The setting could not have been more perfect — the beautiful surroundings of Girvan Community Garden created a warm and reflective atmosphere. Guests were treated to a magnificent afternoon tea, while the day was brought to life through poignant storytelling by Ritchie Conaghan of Girvan & District Great War Project and moving singing from Colin Bryce, the Tartan Tenor.
A balance of celebration and commemoration
Reflecting on the day, Ritchie and Lorna Conaghan from Girvan and District Great War Project shared:
“Well what can we say, Saturday was the best day ever and we really don’t know how to thank everyone for making it so special. Our personal opinion is that we managed to get the perfect balance of celebration and commemoration — a celebration for those who did eventually come home, and remembrance for those who didn’t.”
Many guests were particularly moved by the Untold Stories that were shared. As Ritchie and Lorna noted:
“We had so many comments on our ‘Untold Stories’ — how powerful they were, and how grateful people were that these stories were being told, no matter how hard they were to listen to.”
A true example of community spirit
The event wasn’t just about remembering history — it was also about celebrating the strength and unity of the Girvan community.
“Saturday was, for us, a perfect example of the Girvan community coming together. It was brilliant. We had four separate community groups who worked so well together. We all played our part and no one group had a bigger part to play than the other — teamwork at its finest.”
Adding to the atmosphere, Colin Bryce, The Tartan Tenor, struck just the right note, with performances that were both thought-provoking and, at times, uplifting.
Words that sum it up
Lee Wilson, Chair of Girvan Town Team, captured the essence of the day perfectly:
“It was an absolute honour to play a small part in making this day possible. It was truly the Girvan community at its best.”
And, in the words of King Charles III, spoken during his VJ 80 address:
“The greatest weapons of all are not the arms you bear, but the arms you link.”
That sense of unity was truly felt on Saturday — a day where Girvan came together, not only to remember, but also to celebrate resilience, peace, and community spirit.
Thank you
A heartfelt thank you goes to everyone who made this day possible, from all at Girvan Town Team
