UK could be handed extra Bank Holiday in 2025

The UK might be granted an additional Bank Holiday in 2025 to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. Reports suggest that a four-day weekend could be planned to mark this significant moment in history.

The festivities are expected to take place around May 8 next year, when the nation will honour Victory in Europe Day - the day in 1945 when Germany surrendered. The holiday will also pay tribute to August 15, the day Japan admitted defeat.

Rumours suggest that the event could be observed between May 9 and 12 or by combining August 22 with the existing summer bank holiday on August 25 for a four-day break. A vast majority of Brits have expressed their support for a new bank holiday.

In a poll conducted by the Mirror newspaper before Christmas and New Year, 73 per cent of participants supported the idea of a special day, while only 13 per cent were against a day commemorating the end of global conflict and the return of peace. When asked if they believed younger generations knew enough about the sacrifices made by their predecessors during WWII, 66 per cent felt that young people were not as informed as they should be.

Dick Goodwin, Vice President of the Taxi Charity for Military Veterans, said: "We are looking forward to celebrating with the remaining Second World War heroes - they deserve Britain's gratitude and respect for their courage and sacrifice. We are looking forward to the bank holiday and stand ready to help.", reports Birmingham Live.

A representative from the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport previously stated: "The 80th anniversaries of VE and VJ Day will be moments of huge significance for our country, and the Government is committed to commemorating the occasions appropriately. That is why we have announced more than £10 million for events."

They added: "We will announce the Government's plans to mark the occasion shortly."