Bury St Edmunds care homes invite community to honour VE Day

Three care homes in Bury St Edmunds 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 Davers Court, on Shakers Lane, Glastonbury Court, on Glastonbury Road and Mildenhall Lodge, on St Johns Close, are welcoming local people to honour the 80^th anniversary of VE Day with their very own 1940s-themed street party.

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 Davers Court, the team has been working hard organising a special commemorative event from 11am-3.30pm. Residents and guests can look forward to a delightful 1940s-themed garden party featuring a picnic and an afternoon of live entertainment.

Meanwhile, Glastonbury Court will be opening its doors to visitors from 11am-4.30pm with a church service, followed by an afternoon tea and live music by the Caprice Duo in the garden. Additionally, there will be a raffle, a bake sale, and garden games for everyone to enjoy.

Over at Mildenhall Lodge, entertainer Pam Daish will be getting everyone in the party spirit with some vintage tunes from 2pm-4pm. Guests will also be treated to a host of delicious 1940s-themed foods, specially prepared by the home’s chef. 

Resident Carol Stiles, aged 78, said: "My father was a Sergeant Marksman in the Army, and my mother was a mechanic. My uncle served as a rear gunner on a Lancaster Bomber and participated in the Dambusters Raid. 

“I remember my grandparents discussing how grateful they were to have their family home safe when the war ended. It's important for us to celebrate VE Day to honour all those who were affected by the war."

Hannah Nurse, Home Manager at Mildenhall Lodge, said: “Here at Mildenhall Lodge, 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.”

Ana Mihai, Home Manager at Glastonbury Court added: “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. 

“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. 

Abhilash Gopi, Home Manager at Davers Court, said: “We’re looking forward to welcoming new and old faces into Davers Court, and excited to have some live entertainers join us to get everyone’s toes tapping as we mark such a significant moment in history.”  

Mildenhall Lodge, Glastonbury Court and Davers Court are modern care homes providing full-time residential, dementia and respite care, with Davers Court having also recently opened its new day centre and Mildenhall Lodge also providing nursing care. Designed to enable residents to live enjoyable and fulfilling lives, the homes have their very own cinema, hair and beauty salon, and pub—and there is plenty of space, both indoors and out, for relaxation and recreation.