The prime minister has paid tribute to veterans as celebrations to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day get underway.

Sir Keir Starmer says we ‘owe a debt of gratitude’ to those ‘prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice for our country’.

A military procession and a flypast will kick off four days of events marking the end of the Second World War in Europe.

Crowds are already building along The Mall at Buckingham Palace.

Wandsworth Council says at least 58 street parties will be held in the borough to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day.

The authority’s Heritage Service is also inviting people to donate photographs of their get togethers to the borough archives.

More than 140 street parties were held for the King’s Coronation back in 2023.