Care UK’s Forrester Court, in Paddington, Tennyson Grange, in Sutton, Smyth Lodge, in Sidcup, and St Vincent’s House, in Hammersmith, are welcoming local people to honour the 80th anniversary of VE Day with their own 1940s-themed celebrations.
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 timings of each event are as follows:
- Tennyson Grange – Wednesday 7th May, 11.30am-4pm
- Forrester Court – Thursday 8th May 2025, 2pm-4pm
- Smyth Lodge – Thursday 8th May, 5.30pm-7.30pm
- St Vincent’s House – Thursday 8th May, 2pm-4pm
At Tennyson Grange, the celebration will kick off with a live performance from the D-Day Dollies, who will be performing wartime classics. Guests will then be invited to join residents for a street party and line dancing in the garden.
At Forrester Court, the team has been hard at work organising their own special commemorative event. Guests from the local communities are invited to join residents for an afternoon of delicious food and entertainment.
At Smyth Lodge, the home is hosting a 1940s-themed BBQ with entertainment from local performers, The Jolly Old Timers, and informative talks about VE Day throughout the day.
At St Vincent’s House, the team will be dressed in 1940s attire, and children from two local primary schools will also join the celebration. Guests can also enjoy a BBQ and a lamp light ceremony.
Tracey Cheeseman, Home Manager at Smyth Lodge, 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.”
Brighton Nyagomo, Home Manager at Tennyson Grange, 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 to the home for a nostalgic and heartwarming day to remember!”
Forrester Court, Tennyson Grange, Smyth Lodge and St Vincent’s House have been designed to deliver the very best standards of care and to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives. The homes provide a range of residential, nursing and dementia care, as well as short term respite care, and offer luxurious facilities such as a cinema room, café and hair and beauty salon.
To find out more, visit careuk.com/greater-london