Wartime memories were revived when care homes in Dorset marked the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan (VJ) Day.
Colten Care’s homes Abbey View in Sherborne and Newstone House in Sturminster Newton were decorated with Union flags, bunting and 1940s memorabilia for the occasion.
At Abbey View, residents enjoyed the opportunity to sing classic favourites at an afternoon concert in the garden led by Colten Care’s Music & Arts Partner Fiona Pritchard on vocals and guitar.
The list included Land of Hope and Glory, Pack up your Troubles, It’s a Long Way to Tipperary, Jerusalem, Daisy Daisy, White Cliffs of Dover and We’ll Meet Again.
“Everyone sang with great gusto,” said Abbey View Companionship Team Leader Bev de Bruyn. “We’ve organised similar VJ Day anniversary events in the past and they’ve always proved very popular with residents sharing memories and reflecting on how their younger years were affected by World War Two and its aftermath.
“This year, being the 80th anniversary of the end of the war, had added interest. What a profoundly heartwarming day we had, shared with our wonderful Abbey View family.”
Among the Abbey View residents who took part was 94-year-old David Froud, a former Captain in the Parachute Regiment.
As an ex-soldier, David was invited to address the garden gathering and spoke of the importance of honouring those who fought for our freedom.
Fellow resident Wendy Ash thanked Fiona and all involved in staging the anniversary event, adding: “Well done! That was just so lovely.”
Residents at Newstone House meanwhile took part in Sturminster Newton community events including a service of remembrance.
One resident, Tony, who served in the Navy, said: “You don’t know how much this means to me.”
VJ Day activities at other Colten Care homes included an invite for three ex-service personnel at Braemar Lodge in Salisbury, a resident and two team members, to attend a Royal British Legion parade and dinner at the city’s Guildhall.
The resident was 99-year-old Commander Douglas Parish, a D-Day veteran and long-standing member of the Royal Naval Association, while representing Braemar Lodge staff was Home Manager Jackie Cash, previously in the Princess Mary Royal Air Force Nursing Service, and Companionship Team Leader Graham Ballard, a former Staff Sergeant in the Royal Horse Artillery.
