Witney care home invites community to honour VE Day

A Witney 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 11am-4pm Care UK’s Millers Grange on Curbridge Road, is welcoming local people to honour the 80^th anniversary of VE Day with its 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 Millers Grange, the team has been hard at work organising their own special commemorative event, which will see residents and guests enjoy a garden party with live musicians, fancy dress, and a tasty barbecue, as they embrace the spirit of the 1940s. 

Resident Georgie Edwards, aged 92, said: “I remember helping my mum to paint seams on her legs for nylons! We had tables all down our street and everyone used what they had from their larders to make all kinds of sandwiches and food. We still didn’t have much following the war.”

Ruby Beattie, aged 92, added: “I am looking forward to putting on my dancing shoe’s and celebrating VE Day at our garden party!”

Rachel Scurr, Home Manager at Millers Grange, said: “We’re thrilled to be opening our doors to the community to mark the 80^th anniversary of VE Day. 

“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 memories and 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 Millers Grange for a nostalgic and heartwarming day to remember!”

Millers Grange is a modern care home which provides full-time residential 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 and hair salon, and there is plenty of space both in and outdoors for relaxation and recreation.