A CARE home in Shinfield is preparing to go back to the 1940s as it hosts a commemorative garden party to honour the 80th anniversary of D-Day.
Care UK’s Parsons Grange on Westall Street is inviting residents to join the wartime era-themed community celebration on Thursday, June 6, from 2pm.
It will include music, activities and a barbecue, and a performance by 1940s-style singer Hayley and those attending are invited to wear their finest period clothes and share their memories from decades gone by.
A special lamp, which represents the peace following the end of the Second World War, will be lit at Parsons Grange by resident Raymond Povey, aged 86, who served as chairman of the Tilehurst Royal Legion for 20 years.
He served in the RAF for three years, in Cyprus, Jordon and Iraq in the 1950s.
On how he feels about lighting the lamp he said: “Just one word I feel – proud”.
The event is part of a team-up with royal pageant master Bruno Peek, the coordinator of ‘D-Day 80 Lamp Light of Peace’. Along with the three Forces Charities and the Merchant Navy Association, more than 100 Care UK homes will take part in this nationwide tribute.
Rozina Ali, home manager at Parsons Grange, said: “We’re passionate about playing an active role in our community, so we’re delighted to be joining a nationwide initiative and opening our doors to mark the 80th anniversary of D-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 Hayley to get everyone’s toes tapping.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming new and old faces into Parsons Grange as we mark such a significant moment in history.”
For more details, log on to: careuk.com/dday-80th-anniversary
