West Northamptonshire Council

One Angel Square and Northampton Market Square will be illuminated as part of the national Beacon Lighting Ceremony. Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture, and Leisure, said: "VE Day remains a powerful reminder of the resilience, courage, and unity shown by communities during one of the most challenging times in history. It is important that we continue to honour and remember the sacrifices made for the peace we enjoy today.   “Through these events, we hope people of all generations can come together to celebrate and reflect on this momentous occasion. I encourage everyone to take part, whether by attending a beacon lighting, visiting one of our themed library or museum activities, or supporting local events in our communities." 

Residents are invited to Northampton’s Market Square on Saturday 17 May, from 10am to 2pm, for a special event to mark Mental Health Awareness Week, bringing together a wide range of local charities and organisations. The event aims to raise awareness of the mental health and wellbeing services available to people of all ages across the area and is part of a series of actions led by the Northampton Town Centre Task Group to support workers, businesses, and the wider community. Visitors will have the opportunity to meet with teams from organisations such as Action for Happiness, The Lowdown, Samaritans, Healthwatch, Futures Housing, Orbit, and many more. Public Health colleagues will also be promoting upcoming mental health and suicide prevention training sessions specifically aimed at local businesses. Find out more about mental health and wellbeing support in West Northamptonshire at: on the WNC website.