Bristol care homes invite community to honour VE Day

Two Bristol care homes are opening their doors to the community to mark 80 years since the end of World War Two. 

On Thursday 8^th May, Care UK’s Ladden View, on Fletcher Road, and Trymview Hall, on Southmead Road, are welcoming local people to honour the 80^th anniversary of VE Day with their very own 1940s-themed street parties.

VE Day was celebrated on 8^th 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.

Teams at both homes have 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. 

The event at Ladden View will be taking place from 3pm-6pm and will feature entertainment from and will feature entertainment from the Malthouse Jazz Band. Music will be performed alongside plenty of delicious food and drinks, with donation support to the Royal British Legion.

Meanwhile, Trymview Hall will be welcoming guests to its garden from 12pm-3pm. Visitors can expect live entertainment from Frankie John, as well as plenty of delicious food. 

Trymview Hall resident, Margaret M, said: “It is important to teach the younger generations a more recent history that forged their future. I remember going out with the girls in the office to celebrate. It was a relief knowing all the bombing and fighting had stopped. They had lost so many school friends who had gone to fight. Although things never got back to how they used to be, I remember everyone being very friendly and kind because of what they had all been through.”

Sarah Daly, Home Manager at Ladden View, said: “We’re passionate about building and maintaining relationships within our community here at Ladden View, so we’re pleased to be opening our doors to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day for a special day of sharing memories. 

“This is an incredibly important milestone for many residents, and we’re keen to honour all those involved. Music is also a fantastic way to bring back memories for older people and a wonderful way to bring communities together, so we’re thrilled to have live music to get everyone’s toes tapping.”

Nicole Anderson, Home Manager at Trymview Hall, 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 into Trymview Hall for a nostalgic and heartwarming day to remember!”

Ladden View and Trymview Hall are state-of-the-art care homes which provide full-time residential and specialist dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. The Care UK homes incorporate plenty of space for leisure activities and hobbies, and include a cinema, café, and hair and beauty salon.