FOR some it was a pilgrimage of remembrance, for others a memory of the celebration of the dawning of a new age.

Thousands from across Dartford and Swanley paid homage, 60 years on, to freedom and Victory in Europe Day – with a proper knees-up.

The VE Day celebrations in Dartford town centre and the park next to Broomfield Road, Swanscombe, were organised by Dartford Borough Council, on Saturday.

Wartime treats included spam sandwiches and lardy cake and, in true British style, revellers darted about between rain showers to the sound of 40s tunes.

At the Swanscombe and Greenhithe street event, young and old joined in the party atmosphere.

Helen Patel, 31, said: "It is important children know they have this freedom because of the actions of others and what they gave up for us.

"We felt it was important to come here today because my grandmother was one of the original organisers of the Broomfield Road street party in 1945. I think she would have wanted us to remember and celebrate."

Also together again and celebrating VE Day were three sisters from Bean. During the Second World War, the three brave women played their part in the army, the air force and the hospitals.

Kathleen Oakenshaw, 82, said: "We were also happy when the announcement came from Churchill and we knew that we could come home."

After a service to honour veterans and the release of 12 doves in Dartford Park, it was time to party.

D-Day war veteran George Ring, 80, of Mottingham, said: "I was there at Trafalgar Square for the original celebrations. Everyone was happy. Everybody was singing and dancing. I think it is very important for people now to know what happened.

"I can’t tell them everything about what really happened. We just had to make the most of every day because we never knew what would happen."

Kelly Jaques was among staff at F Hinds jewellery shop who dressed up in wartime clothing as part of the celebrations.

She said: "It has been a very emotional day. It is important we recognise the sacrifices made by our veterans."