Scotland solemnly marked the 80th anniversary of VE Day with a series of tributes across Glasgow and Edinburgh, reflecting on the sacrifices made during the Second World War and the enduring lessons for today's world. In Glasgow, a two-minute silence enveloped the city, with residents pausing in streets, businesses, and train stations to honor the bravery of those who fought against Nazi Germany. The commemorations culminated in a thanksgiving service at Glasgow Cathedral, attended by military representatives, veterans' organizations, and elected officials, including Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes and Scotland Office minister Kirsty McNeill.

The day's events were not only a remembrance of past valor but also a moment to contemplate current global challenges. Scottish Greens co-leader Lorna Slater, speaking at FMQs, drew parallels between the fight against fascism during the Second World War and today's struggles against rising global violence and oppression. Her remarks underscored the importance of vigilance and unity in the face of threats to democracy and human rights, echoing the sentiments of many who see history's lessons as vital for navigating present and future challenges.

In Edinburgh, the UK Government's commemorations included a visit by Scottish Secretary Ian Murray to the Lady Haig Poppy Factory, where he met with World War II veterans. The factory, a symbol of remembrance and support for veterans, serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing need to honor and assist those who have served. Murray's reflections on the significance of VE Day highlighted the day as a turning point in history, emphasizing the gratitude owed to the wartime generation for securing the freedoms enjoyed today.

As Scotland looked back on the 80th anniversary of VE Day, the commemorations served as a bridge between past and present, honoring the sacrifices of those who fought against tyranny while also calling attention to the need for peace and resistance against the resurgence of fascism and violence worldwide. The day's events, marked by silence, reflection, and speeches, offered a moment of unity and remembrance, reminding all of the cost of war and the preciousness of peace.

A suspected gas explosion in Alvaston, Derbyshire, has left a man hospitalized and a neighborhood in shock after the blast 'shook the entire street' late Tuesday evening. Emergency services were quick to respond to the incident on Eden Street, where the force of the explosion was felt nearly half a mile away, with residents describing the moment as akin to an 'earthquake'. The extent of the man's injuries remains unknown, as authorities work to assess the damage and ensure the safety of the area.

Footage from the scene captured the terrifying moment the explosion ripped through a terraced property, sending a massive plume of smoke into the air and affecting a passing car. In addition to the human casualty, a dog was injured in the blast and later rescued by search teams, receiving care from a veterinarian. The incident has prompted a coordinated response from Derbyshire Police and Fire and Rescue Services, with structural engineers evaluating the stability of adjacent properties, both of which have been evacuated as a precaution.

The community has come together in the wake of the explosion, with neighbors checking on one another and sharing their experiences of the harrowing event. One resident, Gill Jennings, recounted how the explosion 'made the ground shake' as she sat in her home, highlighting the widespread impact of the blast. As the investigation into the cause of the explosion begins, residents from 14 properties have been advised to stay away from their homes overnight for safety reasons.

Authorities have emphasized their commitment to determining the cause of the explosion and preventing future incidents. With emergency planning officers and utility representatives on site, the focus remains on making the area safe and supporting those affected. The Derbyshire community, while shaken, has shown resilience in the face of adversity, as recovery efforts continue and the investigation progresses.