JOYFUL DEMONSTRATIONS

Evening Star, Issue 25471, 30 April 1945, Page 6

JOYFUL DEMONSTRATIONS

REPORT SPREADS LIKE AVALANCHE LONDON, April M

Prior to President Truman's'denial of the peace rumour, joyful demonstrations broke out at widespread points. The news of Germany's surrender was shouted across the GermanSwiss border, and the report spread along the frontier like an avalanche, says the British United Press. A crowd of refugees waiting on a frontier bridge to enter Switzerland staged a huge demonstration. People on the German side of the border embraced one another and cheered enthusiastically. Even the German Customs guards seemed affected by the general spirit of exuberance. Early morning rumours flashed from America caused a flurry of excitement in Fleet street and provincial newspaper offices. Some papers, while waiting ifor official confirmation, prepared victory editions, and a typical headline was, " It's All Over Nowi" President Truman's denial followed, and morning editions were published up to two hours late. In New York a large crowd gathered in Times Square, and even after the President's denial the crowd continued to cheer wildly, throwing hats in tne air. Newspapers all over the couutry published extras banner-lining the surrender report. Washington seethed'with excitement. Crowds left theatres, blocking the traffic on Pennsylvania Avenue, and cheering every car leaving the White House. Radio announcers became vibrant with excitement, telling the thrilling news, and newsreel cameras photographed officials and crowds from every angle near the White House, ■ which was the focal point of interest. Motorists honked horns, and church bells rang. In San Francisco delegates to the plenary session cheered when one delegate held up a newspaper with a headline. " Nazis Quit."