Honouring VE Day: A Golden Reflection on Victory and Craftsmanship

As we mark another year since Victory in Europe (VE) Day on 8th May, Wrights of Lymm Gold Leaf Specialists joins the nation in remembering a pivotal moment in history. More than just a celebration of peace, VE Day offers a poignant reminder of resilience, craftsmanship, and heritage—values that remain central to our work in gold leaf gilding and restoration.

What is VE Day?

VE Day commemorates the formal acceptance of Nazi Germany’s unconditional surrender by the Allied Forces in 1945, marking the end of World War II in Europe. On 8th May, celebrations erupted across the UK as millions took to the streets to honour those who fought bravely for freedom and peace.

In towns and cities throughout the country, bunting waved and brass bands played, echoing a collective sigh of relief after six years of conflict. Today, VE Day stands as a moment of national reflection, a chance to honour the sacrifices of the past and recognise how history continues to shape our future.

Gold Leaf and Wartime Britain: A Legacy of Craftsmanship

At Wrights of Lymm, we understand that heritage is more than remembrance—it's a living tradition. The gold leaf craft, like so many traditional skills, played an important role in wartime and post-war Britain. From the restoration of war memorials to the embellishment of civic buildings, gilding has long been associated with commemorative artistry.

During and after the war, many craftsmen were called upon to restore churches, signage, and architectural features damaged by bombings. Gold leaf gilding, with its timeless lustre and symbolic value, was often used to bring dignity and permanence to these tributes.

VE Day and the art of gilding share a deep connection: both reflect enduring values of honour, beauty, and commitment to preservation.

Wrights of Lymm: Keeping Tradition Alive

As one of the UK’s most established gold leaf specialists, Wrights of Lymm continues to honour British craftsmanship by supplying products to monumental masons and restoration specialists across the world as they preserve historic and contemporary gilding techniques. Whether working on war memorial restorations, gilded signage, or heritage architecture, our customers work ensures that history is not only remembered but seen—brightly and beautifully.

We have proudly contributed to a number of commemorative projects over the years, including restoration of inscriptions on cenotaphs and re-gilding features on historic town halls. This work helps communities reconnect with their past, particularly on days like VE Day when memory and identity are foregrounded.

How You Can Celebrate VE Day

Here are a few ways to mark VE Day while appreciating the value of British heritage and traditional craft:

• Visit your local war memorial – take a moment to appreciate the artistry and care behind these tributes.

• Host a tea party or street celebration – much like in 1945, community gatherings are at the heart of VE Day traditions.

• Support local artisans and heritage crafts – whether it's gilders, blacksmiths, or stonemasons, these crafts are part of the national story.

• Share stories – talk to older generations, explore family history, or post a tribute online to keep memories alive.

A Time to Reflect, A Time to Shine

VE Day is not just about the past—it’s about how we preserve and honour it today. At Wrights of Lymm, we are proud to contribute to this living legacy through our dedication to the timeless art of gold leaf gilding.

Whether restoring a centuries-old war memorial or adding golden detail to a modern design, our goal remains the same: to make heritage shine.