On Thursday 8th May, Care UK’s Muriel Street, on Muriel Street, Lennox House, on Durham Road, and Highbury New Park, in Highbury New Park, are welcoming local people to honour the 80th anniversary of VE Day with their very own 1940s-themed garden parties.

VE Day was celebrated on 8th May 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.

The teams at all three homes have been hard at work organising their own special commemorative events, which will see residents and guests enjoy delicious food, entertainment and dancing as they embrace the spirit of the 1940s.

At Muriel Street, starting at 2pm, performer Marco will have toes tapping with classic tunes from decades past. Guests will also be able to enjoy a spread of traditional English buffet-style refreshments.

A special guest, the Mayor of Islington, Councillor Anjna Khurana, will be present at the event, along with representatives from the Royal British Legion. The Mayor will deliver a commemorative speech to mark the occasion.

The home will also host a special art exhibition to showcase and honour creative work from residents.

Muriel Street resident Constance said: “VE Day is not just a date in history, it’s a symbol of hope, unity and the resilience of a generation that endured so much.

“Remembering it keeps their stories alive and honours all who gave so much for the peace we enjoy today.”

At Lennox House, doors will be open to all from 2pm-4pm for an afternoon of remembrance and celebration, including refreshments and entertainment.

Meanwhile at Highbury New Park, friends and relatives will hear a special VE Day performance from the choir at St Joan of Arc School before enjoying refreshments from 11am-12pm.

Gazelle Field, Deputy Home Manager at Muriel Street, said: “This special event is a chance to re-awaken old memories and offers a meaningful way for older people, and those living with dementia, to connect with others and celebrate a momentous event in our history.

“As we approach VE Day, residents have been sharing their cherished stories from wartime Britain – it’s been so inspiring to hear their experiences and learn from one another.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming new and old faces into Muriel Street for a nostalgic and heartwarming day to remember!”

Designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence, Muriel Street, Highbury New Park and Lennox House incorporate plenty of space for leisure activities and hobbies. The homes provide full-time residential, nursing and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. The layout of the buildings are configured into a series of individual suites, each having a dedicated lounge/dining room to help facilitate the creation of close-knit communities.  

To find out more about Muriel Street, Highbury New Park and Lennox House, and for further details about their upcoming VE Day events, visit www.careuk.com/care-homes/locations/islington