The children who are well known to the team and residents at Button House – with some having Grandparents living within the development – were keen to get out their pens, pencils and paint to create bunting which is being hung around the development to commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE Day
The VE Day themed event will mark eight decades since the end of the Second World War in Europe – with an array of music from the era for residents to enjoy.
For one Button House resident, Jenny Newman, 83, the celebrations are extra special as she remembers her dad - John Hannah, who was a Scottish airman and a recipient of the Victoria Cross.
Jenny’s dad was awarded the Victoria Cross for his unbelievable bravery in extinguishing a fire mid-air. The rear gunner and navigator onboard had to bail out and Sergeant Hannah could have acted likewise, but instead he remained to fight the fire, first with two extinguishers and then with his bare hands.
He sustained terrible injuries, but succeeded in putting out the fire and the pilot was able to bring the almost wrecked aircraft back safely to RAF Scampton airfield.
Sergeant Hannah was just eighteen years old at the time of his Victoria Cross action, and the youngest recipient of the medal for aerial operations and the youngest for the Second World War.
Jenny is proud to have a cornerstone of her dad’s military gravestone within the gardens at Button House. She shared: “It’s of great importance to me and has a lovely plaque on it with my dad’s name inscribed. I often lay flowers by it and poppies too. I was only 5 ½ when he passed but I have fond memories and continue to keep them alive alongside my two sisters.
Only last week did we attend the service of remembrance and dedication of VC and GC medal holders at St Martin-in-the-Fields Church in London. Always attended by royalty, this year The Duchess of Edinburgh spoke, and she was faultless and so lovely. It was a glorious day and a very special occasion that I was extremely proud to be a part of.”
Button House boasts a new collection of 80 stylish assisted living apartments, situated over four floors, all accessible by lift and stairs. The community features a range of beautiful one- and two-bedroom homes all suitably designed for those over the age of 55. Each home comes with a private and spacious balcony, plus a range of exciting onsite facilities including a fitness studio, the exclusive Slate & Grain brasserie, bar and coffee lounge, a community hub and more, and homeowners can shirk their domestic responsibilities, with cleaning, laundry and pet sitting services that free up time for doing the fun things in life – like spending time with their grandchildren, exploring the local area which is surrounded by historic towns, villages and parks, or visiting London which is only 25 minutes away by train.
Button House is located within the vibrant New Quarter Mill development and offers a wonderful atmosphere for residents and visitors alike. Perfect for those looking to move into a community that makes life easier, more enjoyable and ultimately a great place to live. And, quietly waiting in the wings is the provision of flexible care and support packages, on offer 24/7 should homeowners need it, meaning every second of life can be enjoyed without worry.
For more information about Button House, or to arrange a viewing, please visit the website or phone Alastair or Christie on 0208 773 3380.