WATCH: Northern Ireland residents find novel ways to mark VE Day

By Peter Moor and PA News.

People throughout Northern Ireland have found novel ways to mark VE day, despite the Coronavirus lockdown measures.

Two RAF Typhoon jets have roared over Belfast to mark the 75th anniversary of the end of the Second World War.  

The jets flew over iconic Belfast buildings including Titanic, the Obel Tower and Stormont.

However, many commemorative events have been moved online due to lockdown restrictions. 

Belfast City Hall and Enniskillen Castle will be illuminated later and church leaders have urged us to consider the cost of peace.

First Minister Arlene Foster says the best way people can honour World War 2 veterans this VE day - is to stay home.

Celebrations have also been carried on throughout the province, but with strict social distancing in place.

Teddy Dixon, a 100-year-old Second World War veteran from Belfast, recorded an online message to mark VE Day as people across the city and beyond joined the Nation's Toast to thank those who served and those on the frontline against Covid-19.

Mr Dixon said: "On this, the 75th anniversary of VE Day, I would like to remember those who served and those who are on the frontline today in the fight against Covid-19.

"All those who gave us so much, we thank you."

Meanwhile, Belfast resident Julie Stockman joined friends and neighbours in Shankill to mark the historic day.

"I just to think we have to remember the people who fought in the wars so they could give us the life we have now," she added.

"Many in the Shankill had grandfathers who were maybe prisoners of war and and won medals, so it's just to say thank you and for giving us our future.

"I think it's because the Twelfth parades have been cancelled we put a bit more effort into VE Day than we would have to still embrace our culture.

"Today is not about party politics, it's about remembering the war and people who fought in it.

"We are all taking social distancing and in our own gardens. A few are having BBQs and there will be a DJ and then we will have a tea party and end with the Vera Lynn song, We'll Meet Again."

Belfast man Graham Bell has family members who fought in the Second World War.

He added: "A lot of my family members are ex-military so it's important to remember them and the sacrifices they made.

"This year is very different - we usually have bouncy castles and it's more of a gathering for friends and family. But this year we are all in our gardens and everyone has their hand sanitisers on and we are taking precautions so we are being careful."