Let there be light – Harrow care home invites local community to honour D-Day

A Harrow care home is opening its doors to the community for a commemorative ceremony.

On Thursday 6th June, from 11am till 3:30pm, Care UK’s Buchanan Court on Sudbury Hill, is welcoming local people to honour the 80th anniversary of D-Day with its very own lamp lighting ceremony.

To commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Normandy Landings on 6th June 1944, Care UK is partnering with royal pageant master Bruno Peek, CVO OBE OPR, coordinator of ‘D-Day 80 Lamp Light of Peace’. Along with the three Forces Charities and the Merchant Navy Association, over 100 Care UK homes will take part in this nationwide tribute.

At Buchanan Court, the team have been hard at work organising a special commemorative event which will see residents and guests enjoy a 1940s-themed party, with team members dressed in the decade’s attire. Guests will also be treated to live music from local entertainer, Natasha Strange, who will be singing popular wartime songs.

The lamp, which represents the peace which followed the end of World War Two, will be lit at 3pm by resident, Maureen Sherwin, who is a lifelong member of Harrow Royal British Legion and has dedicated her time to remember those who have been affected by war.

Esther Adams, Home Manager at Buchanan Court, said: “Here at Buchanan Court, we’re passionate about playing an active role in our community, so we’re delighted so be joining a nationwide initiative and be opening our doors to mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day.

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

“We’re looking forward to welcoming new and old faces into Buchanan Court for what we anticipate will be a heartfelt afternoon for everyone involved!” 

To find out more about how Care UK is supporting the initiative, please visit: careuk.com/dday-80th-anniversary

For more information on Buchanan Court, contact Customer Relations Manager, Lorelei Shepherd, on 020 3504 7077, or email lorelei.shepherd@careuk.com

Buchanan Court provides full-time residential and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. Designed to enable its residents to live enjoyable and fulfilling lives, the care home has its very own bar and hair salon, and there is plenty of space both in and outdoors for relaxation and recreation.