We are writing to encourage your business to take part in a very special occasion for London and
the nation on Thursday 8 May, the 80th anniversary of VE Day.
To commemorate the end of the Second World War in Europe, each year millions of people come
together to celebrate peace and to honour the sacrifice of the wartime generation.
To mark this milestone of 80 years since 1945, the Government has extended pub and bar
licensing hours across England and Wales on 8 May for premises already licensed to sell alcohol
and late night refreshments until 11pm, allowing them to do so until 1am on 9 May.
Whether you run a pub, café, restaurant or music venue, we invite you to make full use of these
powers granted by the Government to create a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where Londoners
and visitors alike can reflect and celebrate. There are gatherings planned across the capital, as
well as a televised event for 10,000 Londoners and visitors at Horse Guards Parade. With your
support, London will be at the heart of the nation’s celebrations.
Beyond VE Day, the Mayor wants to support London’s nightlife businesses to thrive this spring,
summer and beyond. As part of this, we want to see more pubs, bars and music venues
benefitting from the buzz that comes with extended opening hours and al fresco dining. We are
working with the Government to introduce a groundbreaking pilot to support hospitality, leisure
and tourism in our city through new strategic licensing powers and will be working with councils
to do all we can to ensure Londoners and visitors enjoy a summer to remember.
With best wishes,
Justine Simons OBE
Deputy Mayor for Culture and Creative Industries
Howard Dawber
Deputy Mayor of London for Business and Growth
