THIS Saturday marks the 75th anniversary of VJ Day - the official end of the Second World War in Japan - and Bury Council is encouraging people to commemorate the day safely.

In line with government advice, VJ Day events have been scaled back nationally, but there are still plenty of ways to celebrate and mark the anniversary at home.

Councillor Jane Black, cabinet member for the cultural economy, said: “There are many ways you can get involved with VJ Day, either outdoors while following social distancing guidance or online. Celebrate with your household in your own home, or back garden if you have one, but please do not gather in large crowds.

“You can share your stories and messages of remembrance on social media using #VJDay75. Or why not join the Premier League academies in marking the occasion by making paper cranes?”

Lesley Jones, Bury’s director of public health, said: “We know with important celebrations like these it’s even harder not to be able to be with friends and family. We want to thank everyone for all they are doing to help us stop the spread of COVID-19.

“The threat of the virus is still very real in Bury, but by adhering to social distancing guidelines we can limit the impact it will have.

“Please continue to observe government advice. This means staying at home as much as possible, working from home if you can, limiting your contact with other people, keeping your distance from people not in your household (two metres apart where possible), and by washing your hands regularly.”