A Kingston Vale care home welcomed the community to join residents and their relatives last week for a joyful and nostalgic celebration marking the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day.

Care UK's Sherwood Grange, on Robin Hood Lane, pulled out all the stops to commemorate the poignant anniversary of Victory in Europe, and hosted a 1940s-themed street party with a live performance from local singer Kate Bassett, who sang classics from the decade and provided the perfect party atmosphere for a sing-along and a dance.

With the bunting and decorations setting the scene, guests joined residents to enjoy a traditional garden party buffet and outdoor golf.

Children from Robin Hood Primary School were also in attendance at the event. They brought in artwork specially created for the day to show the residents and listened to residents' memories of VE Day 1945.

Care UK's Sherwood Grange recently celebrated VE Day (Credit: Sherwood Grange)

Reflecting on her memories of the day in 1945, 95-year-old resident Betty Jennings said: "I remember what a happy occasion the VE day party was for me personally and my family, as it also meant that we were going to be returning to our home in London from evacuation."

Malgo Wcislo, Home Manager at Sherwood Grange, said: "We had a wonderful time celebrating VE Day 80 with residents, their families and the Kingston Vale community.

"Everyone was in high spirits as we marked this momentous occasion, but we also took time to reflect on the poignancy of the milestone.

"I'd like to thank Kate for her wonderful performance, and the children from Robin Hood Primary School for coming along to our party and sitting with residents as they shared their VE Day memories. A special thanks goes to the entire team for making this celebration possible.

"It was a privilege to honour this important anniversary and to see the residents enjoying the music, food and company of the community as they shared their memories of times gone by.

"It's so important to enable residents to foster meaningful connections with the local community and for us to host nostalgic events that can prompt reminiscence, so our VE Day celebration was a roaring success."  

Sherwood Grange has been designed to encourage residents to live active and fulfilling lives, while remaining as independent as possible in a safe environment.