Eastenders star Ross Kemp and Dame Kelly Holmes have helped the Royal Navy launch a campaign to encourage people to hold street parties to celebrate VE Day next month. The pair were among guests on board the Type 45 destroyer HMS Duncan at Portsmouth Naval Base, which hosted a tea party to promote the nationwide celebrations to be held on May 5.

Mr Kemp, said: "The British public love a knees up - and there's no better reason to celebrate than the anniversary of VE Day.
"I'll be raising a glass to the veterans who defended us, the values that prevailed and the freedom we still have as a result of their victory. Half of the country is already joining in - my message to the other half is it's not too late to get involved."

Dame Kelly, a double Olympic gold medallist, said: "Moments like this become part of our shared history- they remind us of what really matters and the sacrifices that so many have made to protect our democracy and way of life. There is no better way to honour them than to celebrate what they fought for together."

The tea party on the warship's flight deck is part of a series of community events being led by the Together Coalition to celebrate the anniversary - with schools also being encouraged to take part. Co-founder of the Together Coalition Brendan Cox said: "There's now just one month to go until the 80th anniversary of VE Day - and there's still time to get involved.

"Why not join in with the Great British Food Festival on May 5? You could be part of a huge street party or a simple picnic or BBQ with friends. Whatever you do - this is a chance to honour the sacrifices of all those involved in the war effort - and to celebrate what we have in common."

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said: "The 80th anniversary of VE Day is an opportunity for us to come together, to honour and thank our veterans, and to celebrate 80 years of peace. Celebrations will take place in communities across the country on May 5 and I encourage everyone to get involved."

Commanding officer of HMS Duncan Commander Dan Lee said: "The Armed Forces will be at the heart of the commemorations in May to help bring people together and give this historic event the celebration it deserves.

"The Armed Forces are proud to keep alive the spirit of service and sacrifice of the Second World War generation. In May we'll remember those who died, thank those who served and recommit to defending the freedom they fought for."

Polling conducted by Walnut Omnibus on behalf of Together last month found that 53% of respondents said that they would participate in VE Day in some way with 11% planning to attend an event and 4% planning to organise an event - with young people more likely to participate in the celebrations.