Honouring the 80th Anniversary of VE-Day at Check House
At Check House, we believe it is vital to keep history alive through shared experiences, reflection, and celebration. That’s why, beginning Monday 5th May 2025, our residents, staff, and wider community came together to commemorate the 80th Anniversary of VE-Day.
For many of our residents, VE-Day holds deep personal meaning. As children or young adults at the time, they lived through rationing, air raids, and uncertainty, but also recall moments of hope, solidarity, and triumph. This year’s anniversary gave us a precious opportunity to honour those memories and to pay tribute to the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for the peace we enjoy today.
The week-long celebration was filled with joy, remembrance, and community spirit. Our home was transformed with hand-made decorations, lovingly prepared by residents and our dedicated activities team in the days leading up to the event. On Monday 5th May, professional singer Paul Stevens visited to perform a stirring selection of 1940s favourites, which had everyone tapping their toes and singing along.
The highlight of the week was a wonderful tram ride to Colyton, where our residents enjoyed a traditional cream tea alongside friends from Silverleigh and Thornfield Care Home. The event sparked lively conversation, smiles, and lots of laughter. The sense of community and shared history was truly moving.
Later in the week, we gathered again for a local VE-Day ceremony in Axminster Town Centre. Residents appreciated the live music, the opportunity to socialise again with like-minded individuals, and to stand together in remembrance.
At Check House, we’re proud to create meaningful moments that celebrate both personal stories and national heritage. During quieter times in the week, we sat together in small groups to talk about wartime memories and supported each other whilst stories were shared. On Friday, a special remembrance ceremony was held in the Bay Area, giving us time to pause, reflect, and show our heartfelt gratitude.
These moments of connection across generations, between homes, and within our walls remind us of the importance of compassion, peace, and community. We’re already looking forward to our next shared event with our neighbouring homes.
To find out more about how we support our residents to lead a life full of dignity and compassion, or to arrange a visit, please get in touch with our friendly team.
