Hertfordshire care homes invite community to honour VE Day

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

On Thursday 8^th May, Care UK’s Knebworth care home, on London Road in Knebworth, and Snowdrop House, on Baldock Street in Ware, are welcoming local people to honour the 80^th anniversary of VE Day with their very own 1940s-themed 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.

At Knebworth, the team has been hard at work organising their own special commemorative event, taking place from 2pm onwards, which will see residents and guests enjoy an afternoon of tasty food prepared by the home’s talented chefs and live entertainment from Sally Frost, who plays the clarinet, as they embrace the spirit of the 1940s. 

Over at Snowdrop House, from 2pm-4pm, visitors can join residents for an afternoon of celebrations, including live music from singer Nick Carusso, against the backdrop of a traditional garden party, complete with tasty refreshments. Ware’s Town Mayor, Martin Butcher, will also be in attendance.

Snowdrop House resident Hilary Marshall, 87, said: “It’s so important for the community to come together so we can teach the younger generations about what it was like and how the country recovered. When I was 5 years old, my big brother was in the Reconnaissance Regiment, and I remember how worried my mum was. Our family lived in Sheffield and the local factories were tasked with making things for the army which made the city more of a target.”

Daniel Grab, Home Manager at Knebworth, said: “We’re passionate about building and maintaining relationships within our community here at Knebworth, so we’re pleased to be opening our doors to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day for a special day of sharing memories and a fabulous 1940s-themed party. 

“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. 

“We’re looking forward to welcoming our friends and neighbours into Knebworth for a day to remember.”

Clare Crow, Home Manager at Snowdrop House, said: “Here at Snowdrop House, we’re always grateful for an opportunity to strengthen our relationships with the community, so we’re looking forward to welcoming people for a special event marking the 80th anniversary of VE Day. 

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

“We’re looking forward to welcoming new and old faces into Snowdrop House as we mark such a significant moment in history.”  

Knebworth and Snowdrop House are state-of-the-art care homes that provide full-time residential, nursing and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. The care homes incorporate plenty of space for leisure activities and hobbies and have their own hair and beauty salon and café. Snowdrop House even has its own cinema.