On Thursday 8th May, from 2.30pm-4.30pm, Care UK’s Greenview Hall, on Streets Heath, is welcoming local people to honour the 80th anniversary of VE Day with its very own 1940s-themed celebration.

Meanwhile Care UK’s Kingsleigh, on Kingfield Road, will be hosting a commemorative garden party for the community from 11am-4pm.

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 both 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 Greenview Hall, team members will turn back the clock as they adorn fancy dress from the wartime era, while a special entertainer will get everyone’s toes tapping with songs from decades gone by.

At Kingsleigh, a complimentary lunch will be served by soldiers from Pirbright Army Camp. Later, a special memorial beacon will be lit in the garden by members of the Royal British Legion.

Kingsleigh resident Diana Aldridge, aged 87, said: “The part of the celebrations that I am looking forward to most is when the children will visit us, and we will get to tell them our own stories and memories from 80 years ago.

“The children will be a similar age to what I was on VE day, which will make it even more nostalgic.”

Resident David Wiltshire, aged 97, added: “It is so important to celebrate the anniversary of VE Day so we can reflect on the future we have now, thanks to the many people who gave their lives for us.  I will look forward in celebrating this very special day.”

Meera Govindapillai, General Manager at Greenview Hall, said: “We’re thrilled to be opening our doors to the community to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day. 

“The 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.”

Kelly Kelleher, Home Manager at Kingsleigh, added: “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 Kingsleigh for a nostalgic and heartwarming day to remember!”

Designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence, Greenview Hall and Kingsleigh 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 Greenview Hall or Kingsleigh, and for further details about their upcoming VE Day events, visit www.careuk.com/care-homes/locations/surrey