On the day itself ships in the docks all around the coast signaled Morse code V (…-) for victory signs across the sky and sounded their horns.

Statues and public buildings in London and in all other major cities were flood lit for the first time in five years. Some children were reportedly terrified by this new 'phenomena'

Many areas held spontaneous street parties. Wartime treats included jelly, custard, blancmange, tarts and ice cream.

The daily mirror fulfilled its promise to its readers and finally published a nude picture of its popular comic strip 'Jane'.

Churchill went from 10 Downing Street to the House of Commons his car pushed all the way by jubilant crowds. He later made an address from a balcony overlooking St James Park.

As the crowds gathered outside Buckingham Palace Humphrey Littleton then a Guards Officer gave an impromptu concert from a hand cart, which was pulled along the Mall,  St James's Street and Trafalgar Square before concluding his journey outside the palace with a blast of  'He's a jolly good fellow' delivered in the direction of the King.

Princess Elizabeth and Margaret broke with Royal tradition and joined the throng outside the Palace.

Food rationing continued well after the war and petrol became scarce. Clothes rationing continued till 1950. ID Cards and ration books were finally abolished in 1948.