LIVE: VE Day celebrations kick off as the UK marks 80 years since WWII ended

Eighty years ago today, celebrations erupted around the world to mark the end of World War II in Europe. Ever since, the UK has celebrated the historical moment up and down the country with street parties to celebrate the soldiers efforts throughout the gruelling six-year war and mourn those who we lost in the horrors of war.

On Thursday (May 8), the finale of the VE Day celebrations is set to culminate in a live conert from Horse Guards Parade in London, presented by Zoe Ball on . Set to take to the stage this evening is Fleur East, The Darkness, and Freya Ridings who will get people off their feet dancing to the music.

Viewers will also be treated to special ballroom performances several Strictly stars and celebrated actor Brian Cox will deliver a powerful reenactment of Winston Churchill's iconic wartime speech. Alongside the stars of stage and screen who perform at the concert, veterans also tell their stories of love, loss, and resilience as they share their unique experiences of VE Day, when they could finally smile again.

With a live orchestra, the concert will channel the spirit of what was the ultimate street party - and no VE day concert would be complete without special performances of Teh White Cliffs of Dover and We'll Meet Again. Follow along as we bring all the highlights from the stellar two-hour celebration on our live blog.