Stansted care home invites community to honour VE Day

A Stansted care home is opening its doors to the community to mark 80 years since the end of World War II. 

On Thursday 8^th May, from 2pm-4.30pm, Care UK’s Mountfitchet House, on Coltsfield, is welcoming local people to honour the 80^th anniversary of VE Day with its 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 Mountfitchet House, the team has been hard at work organising their special commemorative event, which will see residents and guests enjoy a street party held outside the front of the home, with plenty of bunting, a traditional afternoon tea and a fish and chip supper later in the day.  To embrace the spirit of the 1940s, the u3a Ukulele Group will be performing classic war time songs live at the celebration, and there will be a nostalgic performance by a talented bugle player.

Resident Audrey Clewes-Garner, who was nine years old when the war began said: “Celebrating the 80^th anniversary of VE day is important to ensure people are aware of what really went on, and we don't forget those who gave their lives for us.”

Joanna Duke, Home Manager at Mountfitchet House, said: “Here at Mountfitchet 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 the U3A Ukele band to get everyone’s toes tapping. 

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

Mountfitchet House is a state-of-the-art care home which provides full-time residential, nursing, and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. The care home incorporates plenty of space for leisure activities and hobbies, and includes its own cinema, hair salon and café.