Three Kent care homes are opening their doors to the community to mark 80 years since the end of World War II.
On Thursday 8th May, Care UK ’s Harrier Lodge, in Whitstable, Invicta Court, in Maidstone, and Montfort Manor, in Ashford, are welcoming local people to honour the 80th anniversary of VE Day with their very own 1940s-themed street party.
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.
At Invicta Court, guests will have the opportunity to experience their immersive 1940’s themed public house, general store and street party scene and enjoy a tasty afternoon tea from 3pm-4.30pm. There will also be live entertainment from Janet to get everyone’s feet tapping.
From 2.30pm- 4:00pm, the team at Montfort Manor will be dressed in their finest 1940s attire and will welcome special visitors from the British Royal Legion including a 104-year-old veteran from Gold Beach to share his stories. There will also be entertainment to get everyone’s feet tapping.
Meanwhile, at Harrier Lodge, from 2pm-3.30pm the team has been hard at work organising their own special commemorative event, which will see residents and guests enjoy an afternoon of delicious food, entertainment and dancing as they embrace the spirit of the 1940s.
Resident, Michael Gale, from Invicta Court said: “It is very important for the community to come together to remember VE day as it records the fact of the combined forces of Britian and America defeating Nazi Germany after 6 years and the signing of the capitulation.
“One memory I have is hiding under the dining room table to escape the noise of the German aircraft. I recall living with my extended family in a house in Cheltenham that my grandfather bought for us all whilst my father, who was unfit for service, stayed in London working as an Air Raid Warden.”
Joanne Eaton, Home Manager at Montfort Manor, 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.”
Sara Barbosa, Home Manager at Invicta Court, 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 for a nostalgic and heartwarming day to remember!”
Harrier Lodge, Invicta Court and Montfort Manor are purpose-built care homes designed to deliver luxury hotel-style comfort for residents, complete with a café, hair and beauty salon, cinema and beautiful gardens. The homes are divided into separate residential, nursing and dementia care suites, encouraging close-knit communities where residents can get to know each other, and where people with similar needs can be cared for together.
Invicta Court and Harrier Lodge are officially a Veteran Friendly Framework accredited care home, recognising our best practice and highest standards of care for the Armed Forces community.
