As the country marks VE Day, we look briefly at local history, from New Radnor to Llanbadarn Fawr.

During the events of World War II, many rural communities in Wales had to adapt. Whether it was facing rationing and blackouts, or missing those who had gone to war, the atmosphere was tense.

But in 1945, news of Victory in Europe reached those in these communities. Spontaneous street parties were thrown, with decoration made on the fly by using blackout curtains and assembling food that could be shared.

Records of celebrations in New Radnor are sparse, with the community owned pub The Radnor Arms asking for those in the area to share their stories and memories to help tell the story of the time. History of The Radnor Arms during this time is documented. The manager during World War II was Albert William Swane. During World War I, landlords George and Martha Lingen emigrated to Canada with their seven children, all born in the village. Their youngest son, Kenneth, fought for Canada in World War II, but unfortunately was killed in action in 1944. Now, in St Mary’s Church in the village, a plaque is on the wall in his memory.

Penybont hosted a garden party and sale in aid of the Penybont and District Welcome Home Fund. The event held competitions and a concert. One fun activity saw two bananas auctioned for 2 90 shillings, equivalent to £122 today.

Meanwhile, Rhos Fawr, a mountain summit in the Radnor Forest, was the scene of a plane crash. On the 12th of December 1944, a training flight took off from Aberaeron, carrying six members of crew. While over the Radnor hills, damp December air caused severe icing, and the starboard engine stopped. Sergeant Earl, piloting the plane, pulled off a wheels-up landing on the plateau of Rhos Fawr, and every member of the crew got off the plane with their lives, completely uninjured.

From there, Sergeant Earl and navigator Sergeant T Morley made their way to the village of New Radnor, returning to collect the remaining crew three hours later. In the village, they visited the Radnor Arms pub, where they had food and drinks.

Near Llandrindod Wells, on the 21st of December 1945, flying officer Morris Davies and flight lieutenant George Horace Hammond were not as lucky. Taking off from RAF Aberporth for Castle Bromwich, the flight didn’t arrive to its final destination. A search was started and lasted several days, but when snow came the search was abandoned. Finally, on the 2nd of February, a farmer discovered the missing aircraft on the western side of Great Rhos. Parts of the wreckage can still be seen today.

Llanbadarn Fawr, in Ceredigion, saw around 150 children and mothers in the village hall, where they were entertained with tea. Sports followed in a nearby field.

Streetlights came back on, church bells rang out, and people looked forward to rebuilding their communities.

Now, 80 years later, people still gather to pay their respects, and recall the sacrifices made by those who fought in the war.