WWII veterans and centenarians have told the Daily Express of their Victory in Europe (VE) celebrations in 1945 – as they celebrate the 80th anniversary in their care homes across the UK. 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. Now ahead of Thursday’s historic 80th anniversary, residents at two care homes have reflected on the very first VE day in 1945 – as they told us how important it is we remember the historic event each year.
At Care UK’s Bickerton House in Bracknell, resident Maisie Gerring, 87, looked briefly shaken as she remembered the terrifying Luftwaffe air raids that marked her early childhood.
Maisie – a schoolgirl at the time when WWII raged – told us: “I remember the war and hiding under the table with my family whenever the planes came over.
“My Dad was a patrol man and he had to make sure all the homes were dark so that everyone remained as safe and hidden as possible.
“On VE Day in 1945, I remember everyone was happy and relieved and we all partied in the streets with our friends and family.
“It’s important we continue to come together to commemorate the day and pass on the memories of the people that fought for us – we must never forget.”
While at Care UK’s Tennyson Grange, patriotic veteran Gladys Gooch, 101, reflected on her own military background. At 18, Gladys decided to join the Air Force rather than the army as she preferred the uniform.
Gladys said: “I didn’t like the colour of the Army uniform and preferred the Air Force uniform – so that was the path for me!”
During her time with the Air Force, Gladys’ first role was to support on air balloons which were used to divert and disrupt enemy aircrafts.
Gladys would often get inside the balloons to repair and clean them after they had been used.
Further into her military career, Gladys supported the war effort by driving lorries, including a 3-ton Bedford truck, to transport pilots from their accommodation to the airfields.
Reflecting on the VE Day celebrations in 1945, Gladys said: “I remember my road, Wandle Road in Merton, lined with benches all the way along.
There was a huge street party with everyone outside enjoying sandwiches, cakes and jelly. People made whatever they could with the food they had, and everybody laughed and cheered – they were so happy!”
In honour of the 80th anniversary of VE Day, more than 150 https://www.careuk.com/ care homes have already or will host their own street parties in their local communities.
Kicking off the celebrations early last weekend was Care UK’s Long Stone Manor in Cheshire, which has transported locals back to the 1940s with a vintage-style tea dance.
Guests enjoyed live entertainment from local performer Emily Owen, who sang well-loved songs from the era. With the home decorated in period style and afternoon tea served, the event provided a warm, thoughtful tribute to VE Day and the community spirit it represents.
Emma Tillyer, Home Manager at Long Stone Manor, said: “We’re passionate about building and maintaining relationships within our community here at Care UK, so we’re delighted to open our doors to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day for a special day of sharing memories and a wonderful vintage tea dance.
“Reminiscence activities are a great way for older people, especially those living with dementia, to connect with those around them and help maintain a sense of identity.
“In the run up to the day, residents have been sharing their own stories and it’s been inspiring to hear everyone’s experiences and memories from wartime Britain.”