Barnsley College Principal joins World Peace Day ceremony in London
Barnsley College Principal and Chief Executive, David Akeroyd, represented the College at the World Peace Day ceremony at St Martin-in-the-Fields, Trafalgar Square, London, on Sunday 21 September 2025.
The event, which also celebrated 80 years of peaceful UK–Japan relations and marked the opening of the Japan Matsuri, brought together dignitaries, clergy, and international delegates for a morning of reflection and celebration.
At the heart of the ceremony was the Lamp Light of Peace, a powerful symbol of remembrance and reconciliation, designed to represent sacrifice, dignity, and the light of peace emerging from the darkness of war.
The College became the official custodian of the Lamp Light of Peace in May 2025, following the national VE Day 80 commemorations. Since then, the College has proudly showcased the Lamp as part of its commitment to remembrance, heritage, and education.
David Akeroyd, Barnsley College Principal and CEO said: “It was a privilege to speak at the World Peace Day ceremony and accompany the Lamp Light of Peace, which is entrusted to Barnsley College as its proud custodian. The Lamp symbolises remembrance, unity, and hope – values that we work to uphold every day.
“To share our story and our role in safeguarding such a special symbol of commemoration, on a national and international stage, was very special.
“I am immensely proud that Barnsley College continues to lead the way for the nation’s colleges in using education to foster understanding, reconciliation, and peace for future generations.”
The Lamp processed into the church before being blessed during a multi-faith ceremony. During the ceremony, David delivered a speech reflecting on the symbolism of the Lamp and Barnsley College’s honour in safeguarding it. He also joined dignitaries in celebrating the shared message of peace, unity, and reconciliation.
Lady Jane MacRae, who first delivered the Lamp to Barnsley College, said: “It was an honour to attend such a significant event, and to once again join David and Barnsley College to share the Lamp Light of Peace.
“The College’s commitment to remembrance, and to sharing the message that the Lamp represents, has been inspiring.
“The Lamp carries a powerful message: that from the shadows of war, we can nurture the light of peace. Seeing it shared on an international stage in London was truly inspiring.”
The ceremony included readings, blessings from multiple faith traditions, performances of national anthems, and a procession into Trafalgar Square where the Lamp Light of Peace was placed on stage for the Japan Matsuri Opening Ceremony in front of an audience of around 50,000 people.
Lady Jane played Celebratum – the specially composed bagpipes piece that she played for the King during national VE Day celebrations – during the World Peace Day event.
The Lamp Light of Peace is now on public display at Barnsley Town Hall, where visitors are welcome to view it and reflect on its message.
