Stowmarket care homes invite community to honour VE Day

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

On Thursday 8^th May from 1pm-3pm, Care UK’s Cedrus House, on Bittern Crescent, is welcoming local people to honour the 80^th anniversary of VE Day with their very own 1940s-themed garden 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 Cedrus House, residents and guests will be able to enjoy an afternoon of nostalgic entertainment, a wartime-themed knees up and a delicious barbeque as they embrace the spirit of the 1940s. 

To honour World War II veterans and civilians, Cedrus House is celebrating the Standing with Giants VE Day campaign to raise funds for The Royal British Legion. As part of this campaign, the home is displaying a life-size banner of those who were involved in the VE Day celebrations. One of these individuals is Cedrus House resident, Marine Francis ‘Jim’ Grant, who joined the Royal Marines in 1943 and was just 20 years old at the time of VE Day.  

Commenting on why it’s important to commemorate VE Day, Jim said: “It’s important to remember that lots of people lost their lives during the war. Coming together to celebrate the end of the war and to remember those lost and their families is an important piece of history that shouldn’t be forgotten.”

Deepa Reju, Home Manager at Cedrus House said: “Here at Cedrus 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 garden party marking the 80th anniversary of VE Day.

“This milestone holds great significance for many of our residents, and we are eager to honour all those who were involved. Reminiscence activities are a great way for older people, and 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 memories of VE Day and it’s been fantastic to hear everyone’s experiences and learn from one another. 

“We’re looking forward to welcoming the community as we mark such a significant moment in history with a wonderful intergenerational event.”  

Cedrus House is a modern care home which provides full-time residential, nursing and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. Designed to enable its residents to live enjoyable and fulfilling lives, the care home has its very own cinema, café and hair and beauty salon, and there is plenty of space - both indoors and out - for relaxation and recreation.