VE DAY celebrations were in full swing across Bury last week ­— albeit from a safe social distance.

People across the borough marked the 75th anniversary of Victory in Europe, on May 8, with a variety of colourful commemorations.

In Walmersley and Bolton Road communities found a way to come together with the best of British spirit during these uncertain times.

Neighbours chatted to one another from the safety of their gardens, and traditional treats, and barbecues were enjoyed.

Across the streets decorations and flags fluttered, and the music of Dame Vera Lynn, Glenn Miller, and big brass bands filled the air.

Bury Times: VE Day 75th anniversary celebrations in Bolton Road, Bury. Photo Danny CromptonVE Day 75th anniversary celebrations in Bolton Road, Bury. Photo Danny Crompton

Janine Jordan, who lives in Bolton Road with her husband Jimmy, an ex-soldier, said the community had come together, and grown stronger, since the start of the weekly clap for key workers.

Out of this unity a friendly rivalry emerged over who could create the best VE Day decorations at the front of their houses.

She added: "I've gained friends for life. It makes you evaluate things and put things in to perspective.

"We love and cherish our armed forces and they will never be forgotten."

Bury Times: VE Day 75th anniversary celebrations at Walshaw Hall Care HomeVE Day 75th anniversary celebrations at Walshaw Hall Care Home

Celebrations were also held at the borough's care homes, including MHA Epworth Grange, and Walshaw Hall ­— where residents enjoyed a cream, tea, mocktails, and entertainment from 1940's-inspired singer, Lynne Sheldon.

Down the road at Peachment Place in St Peter’s Road, Redvales, tenants threw their own a balcony afternoon tea party.

One of the most unique celebrations of VE Day saw a vintage tractor, decked out in balloons, bunting, and Union Flags, and carrying 'The Queen' in its trailer, pass through Unsworth, Sunnybank, Hollins, and Whitefield.

Bury Times: Tractor driving around Unsworth, Sunnybank, Hollins and Whitefield for VE Day 75th anniversaryTractor driving around Unsworth, Sunnybank, Hollins and Whitefield for VE Day 75th anniversary

In Simister, villagers and members of the congregation at St George's Church made 278 hand-knitted poppies to mark the anniversary.

These poppies were then stitched together into a tapestry by deputy church warden, Joan Knott, and displayed on the Lady Wilton Hall.

Elsewhere in the village a faded and historic Union Flag could be seen flying from one villager's window.

The very same flag had been flown on the first VE Day in 1945.

Bury Times: VE Day 75th anniversary poppy display in SimisterVE Day 75th anniversary poppy display in Simister

Nearby, in Nursery Road, Prestwich, a huge socially-distanced street party was held, and the whole area was decked out in red, white and blue.

Residents enjoyed cakes and treats, musical performances, competitions and tombolas, and even a visit from a Second World War truck.

Theresa Mitchell, who helped to organise the street party, said: “It was magnificent. The greatest thing is that everyone complied with the social distancing rules.

“We met new friends and new people on our road that we haven’t seen before.

“I always say that my wedding day was the best day of my life, well this was the second.

“Everyone helped from putting bunting up to local businesses and takeaways who delivered food.”

Another street party was held in Albany Drive, Redvales ­— where residents created a memorial on the street's roundabout, and a remembrance board.