The early May bank holiday is being moved to a Friday next year.

The move is to mark the 75th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, also known as VE Day.

Business Secretary Greg Clark announced the holiday will move four days later - from Monday, May 4 to Friday, May 8 - so people can pay tribute to those who served in the Second World War.

May 8, 1945, was the date when Allied Forced formally accepted Germany's surrender, marking the end of history's bloodiest ever conflict.

The bank holiday on VE Day will kick off a three-day weekend commemoration when over 20,000 pubs will encourage patrons to raise a glass to the heroes of the war.

Bagpipers will also play the traditional Battle’s O’er at the top of the four highest peaks in the UK - Ben Nevis in Scotland, Scafell Pike in England, Mount Snowdon in Wales and Slieve Donard in Northern Ireland.

Mr Clark said: "VE Day marked an historic moment in not only our nation's, but the world's history and it is important that we commemorate this great occasion on its 75th anniversary.

"Moving next year's early May bank holiday to VE Day itself is a right and fitting tribute.

"It will ensure as many people as possible have the opportunity to remember and honour our heroes of the Second World War and reflect on the sacrifices of a generation."

This will be the second time ever that the early May bank holiday has been moved.

The first one was 25 years ago in 1995 to mark VE Day's 50th anniversary.

The change has been made by ministers by a Royal Proclamation under the Banking and Financial Dealings Act 1971.

Defence Secretary Penny Mordaunt said: "Moving next year's bank holiday will give us the opportunity to come together to remember and honour those who gave so much to secure our freedom and liberty."

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The move was also welcomed by veteran's chiefs and charities.

"We’re honoured to be the official charity partner for VE Day 75 and call on everyone to remember the men and women that fought to defend our freedom."