Loughborough veteran Mel Gould will light a commemorative beacon in Queen’s Park to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan Day (VJ Day), which ended the Second World War.

Picture: Mel Gould
Mel served 12 years in the Royal Leicestershire and Royal Anglian Regiments, followed by 27 years in the Territorial Army. A lifelong advocate for veterans, he also led the Carillon Tower and War Memorial Museum for 16 years.
“It’s a privilege to honour those who served, especially local men who fought in the Far East,” said Mel. “Many are remembered on the Carillon Tower.”
The event, on Friday, August 15, organised by Charnwood Borough Council, runs from 7pm–9pm with the beacon lighting at 8:30pm. It will feature live music, local stalls, and reflections from veterans and dignitaries.
Beacons will be lit nationwide to remember those who served and sacrificed in the war.



