May bank holiday Monday is moving to a Friday in 2020

This is on the second time May Day has moved

deckchairs on the beach

by Alex Ross |
Updated on

We all look forward to the early May Bank Holiday, but things are changing in 2020, and it is for a very good reason! The first Bank Holiday in May will be moved to the Friday, this is to mark the 75th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, also known as VE Day.

The news was announced by Business Secretary Greg Clark, who revealed the Bank Holiday will move from Monday 4th May to Friday 8th May, in order to allow people to pay tribute to the heroes of the Second World War.

VE DAY
©VE Day © Getty Images

Greg Clark said, "VE Day marked an historic moment in not only our nation's, but the world's history and it is important that we commemorate this great occasion on its 75th anniversary.

"Moving next year's early May bank holiday to VE Day itself is a right and fitting tribute.

"It will ensure as many people as possible have the opportunity to remember and honour our heroes of the Second World War and reflect on the sacrifices of a generation."

This is the second time May Day has moved, the first time was 25 years ago in 1995 to mark VE Day's 50th anniversary.

The new Bank Holiday Friday will be the start of a three-day weekend made up of commemorative events, with over 20,000 pubs making a toast the war heroes, as well as a number of churches taking part in a Ringing Out For Peace.

Roll on Bank Holiday Friday! 🙌

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