DROITWICH Spa could be the place to be for VE Day celebrations for years to come.

Town councillor Graham Gopsill said if the post-war party planned for next May goes off with bang, Droitwich could become one of the country's premier sites for the celebrations.

Cllr Gopsill, who is organising the extravaganza, addressed a special meeting of traders at St Richard's House last Tuesday.

The enthusiastic member of the World War Two Historical Society said the event, which will run on May 7 and 8, could attract visitors from all over the country.

"This is a big opportunity for people to make some money as there will be a lot of visitors to the town," he said.

However, despite this only about ten people turned out to the meeting of about half were traders. He said he hoped to have more support from Droitwich's business community as they have a chance to cash in on the extravaganza marking 60 years since the end of World War Two.

Cllr Terry Spencer said the backing of DARTS (Droitwich Association for Retail, Tourism and Services) could be expected.

"Chairman Richard Brighton could not make it tonight, but they will support us," he said.

Cllr Gospill continued by detailing the way businesses could get involved in the fun by decorating their shops with bunting.

"Packs with all these sort of decorations in will be provided."

Cafes and restaurants, in particular, will be encouraged to open on the Sunday to provide refreshments to visitors.

High Street, St Andrews Street and Victoria Square will not have vehicular access from the evening of Friday, May 6 until Sunday, May 8.

Cllr Gospill said he was also looking into the possibility of providing camping on either Droitwich Rugby Club or King George's playing field. The decisiong to underwrite the £6,000 for the celebrations was approved by the resources committee on Monday.

HERE are just some of the exciting attractions visitors may enjoy during the VE Day spectacular:

l Tribute acts to Glen Miller, Vera Lynn, Marlene Dietrich, George Formby and the Andrews Sisters on a stage in Victoria Square

l More than 200 re-enactors in services uniform or civilian clothing taking to the streets

l A Spitfire flyover

l A World War Two wedding service

l A march from Droitwich Spa's Royal British Legion

l A street party and Punch and Judy show for children in Victoria Square

l Pre-war cars, jeeps, personnel carriers and RAF trainers stationed around town

l Stalls selling 1940s memorabilia

l Speeches from a Winston Churchill look-a-like