VE Day marked the day towards the end of World War Two (WW2) when fighting against Nazi Germany in Europe came to an end. It meant an end to nearly six years of a war that had cost the lives of millions, having destroyed homes, families, and cities. Millions of people rejoiced in the news that Germany had surrendered and across Britain, including Croydon, people marked the victory with street parties, dancing and singing.

VJ Day marked the surrender of Japan forces, which in effect ended the Second World War. Following the celebrations for VE Day on 8 May, the town of Croydon began to relax into a kind of peacetime. Although there was no longer a danger from the skies, the war continued in other parts of the world. It was to be a while yet before those serving in the East; particularly India, Malaya and Java would be welcomed home. After the devastation of two atomic bombs Japan surrendered unconditionally. The world war was now at an end and once again Croydon celebrated marking 15 August and the day after a national holiday.