BARNSLEY College students are spearheading a groundbreaking digital tribute to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day.
The college is inviting people worldwide to take part in #VEHAPPY, a dynamic online arts project celebrating victory, unity and resilience.
Launched this week, the campaign invites participants to upload their V for Victory selfies to ve80.com/vehappy, becoming a pixel in a living digital mosaic that will recreate the iconic moment Winston Churchill addressed jubilant crowds from the Whitehall balcony on VE Day, May 8, 1945.
By taking part, individuals of all ages will become part of history, ensuring the long term legacy of VE Day continues to inspire future generations.
Barnsley College is at the forefront of the VE Day 80 initiative, with its Creative and Digital Industries department developing bespoke software to power the campaign.
A dedicated group of 28 students is capturing the essence of VE Day through social media content, interviews with local residents, and archival photographs spanning the 80 years since 1945. The college has also launched VE Day Radio, streaming live from VE80.com/radio, offering stories, music and historical insights to bring the spirit of VE Day to life for audiences worldwide.
David Akeroyd, Principal and CEO of Barnsley College, expressed his immense pride in the College’s students. “I am incredibly proud of our team for not only leading the nation’s colleges in celebrating VE Day 80 but also for their outstanding creativity in bringing history to life through digital media. This initiative highlights the very best of our students, staff, and community. It demonstrates how today’s young people value unity and shared ideals. By embracing innovation, we ensure the lessons of the past continue to inspire the future.”
David Akeroyd also commended the college’s role in showcasing Barnsley’s journey from post-war resilience to modern-day prosperity, further cementing the town’s position as a hub of storytelling and digital creativity.
VE Day 80 Hits the Open RoadThis initiative takes to the streets with the donation of a VE Day 80 truck by Steve Wilson of Thomas Hardie Commercials to Veterans in Logistics. The 40-foot truck, wrapped with the VE Day 80 tribute, will spread awareness nationwide while also helping veterans gain HGV licences and secure jobs in the logistics sector.
Steve Wilson said, “We’re proud to support VE Day 80. This truck not only promotes British values but also creates career opportunities and jobs for those who have served our country.
“By investing in our veterans, we’re investing in both them and the logistics sector.”
Meanwhile, Darren Wright, founder of Veterans in Logistics, has announced new efforts to support British veterans by providing valuable job training and career opportunities: “We’re committed to helping veterans secure their HGV licences – we’re opening doors to stable careers that offer growth, security, and the chance to thrive after service.”
Bruno Peek CVO OBE OPR, Pageantmaster for VE Day 80,who is working in collaboration with the college on the digital project has praised the dedication and creativity of Barnsley College’s students and staff in leading this global tribute. “The work Barnsley College has created for VE Day 80 is truly remarkable. Their innovative approach, using digital technology to unite people worldwide, is a testament to the passion and hard work of these students. I could not be prouder of what they have accomplished.”
