On Thursday 8th May, from 2pm-4pm, Care UK’s Field Lodge, on London Road, is welcoming local people to honour the 80th anniversary of VE Day with its very own1940s-themed street party. 

VE Day was celebratedon 8thMay 1945, after Prime Minister Winston Churchill made an announcement on the radio that the war in Europe had come to an end. This emotional news sparked celebrations across the country, with many taking to the streets for spontaneous parties. 

At Field Lodge, the team has been hard at work organising their own special commemorative event, which will see residents and guests enjoy an afternoon of delicious food, entertainment and dancingas they embrace the spirit of the 1940s.  

The Field Lodge team will be celebrating VE Day in style this year by dressing up as land girls and RAF pilots, with the community also encouraged to attend in 1940s attire. Entertaiment will include a performance byguitarist and fellow Rotarian, John Pilbeam. 

Resident Doris Chester, aged 100, said: “So many people from all walks of life made so many sacrifices during the war,and everything that they fought for had been accomplished on VE Day. 

It was my day off when Churchill declared the official surrender. I was in my 20s. It was a fantastic moment – everyone came out of their homes regardless. People came together, and everyone was dancing and singing. Many street parties took place, and people pooled their rations to make cakes and other treats.” 

Linda Martinez, Home Manager at Field Lodge, said: “We’re passionate about building and maintaining relationships within our community here at Field Lodge, so we’re pleased to be opening our doors to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day for a special day of sharing memories and a fabulous party complete with a vintage-inspired British spread. 

“Reminiscence activities are a great way for older people, especially those living with dementia, to connect with those around them and help maintain a sense of identity. In the run up to the day, residents have been sharing their own stories and it’s been inspiring to hear everyone’s experiences and memories from wartime Britian.  

“We’re looking forward to welcoming our friends and neighbours into Field Lodge for a day to remember.”  

Field Lodge is a modern, purpose-built care home providing full-time residential, nursing, and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. Designed to enable residents to live enjoyable and fulfilling lives, the care home has a choice of lounges and dining rooms, as well as its own activity room, cinema, and hair salon. 

For more information about Field Lodge, or to book a spot at the VE Day celebration, please call Customer Relations Manager Beverley Tyrrell on 01480 877638, or email beverley.tyrrell@careuk.com   

Further information about Field Lodge can be found at careuk.com/field-lodge