As part of proceedings to commemorate VE Day 2025 and the 80th anniversary of the end of World War Two in Europe, the Mayor of Wolverhampton headed up a civic visit to the Netherlands last week.

Deputy Lieutenant of the West Midlands Professor Martin Levermore MBE organised this historic visit hosted by Guards Regiment Fusiliers Princess Irene which has close ties with the city.

The small delegation travelled to The Hague in Holland to mark this remarkable milestone in European history of the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the country and included the Mayor Councillor Linda Leach, Mayor’s Consort and Deputy Mayor, Councillor Craig Collingswood as Chair of the Armed Forces Covenant.

The small delegation travelled to the Hague in Holland to mark the remarkable milestone in European history of the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the country.

“Mayor of Wolverhampton, Councillor Linda Leach, said: “The unique bond between the City of Wolverhampton and the people of the Netherlands was forged during the Second World War and has endured for 80 years since the Princess Irene Brigade found a home in Wolverhampton at Wrottesley Park in 1941.

“The Princess Irene Brigade hold the honour of Freedom of Entry to the City of Wolverhampton, and it was a privilege to be welcomed to their city to mark the 80th anniversary of the liberation of The Hague, a momentous event in which the Princess Irene Brigade played a pivotal role and were the first Allied unit to enter the city.

“As we reflect on these historic events, we continue to honour the memory of those sacrificed at the Dutch War Graves Ceremony in Jeffcock Road Cemetery as we do each year, a solemn reminder of the price of freedom and the enduring bond between Wolverhampton, Great Britain and the Netherlands. As we look to the future, may we draw inspiration from the bravery of the Princess Irene Brigade and strive to uphold the legacy they have left us.”

Professor Martin Levermore MBE DL said: “It was an honour for the delegation to be presented to His Majesty Prince Jaime de Bourbon de Parme during the visit and thank all involved on this, the 80th year of the liberation of the Hague, and an opportune time for the City of Wolverhampton to deepen its engagement with Netherlands and its collective appreciation for all those that sacrifice their lives in the pursuit of democracy and freedom.”