The book MEMORIES OF VE DAY & VJ DAY From Cricklade – and From Near and Far has been produced by Marion Parsons, a member of Cricklade Historical Society to share memories and raise money for Cricklade Open Door and the Cricklade Branch of The Royal British Legion.

OSJCT The Lakes Care Centre sits just four miles from Cricklade and many residents living at the care home spent their lives living in Cricklade and the surrounding area.

The Victory in Europe Day (VE Day) celebrations on 8 May 2020 marked 75 years since the guns fell silent at the end of the war in Europe. Years of carnage and destruction had come to an end and millions of people took to the streets and pubs to celebrate peace, mourn their loved ones and to hope for the future. Victory in Japan Day (VJ Day) celebrated on 15 August 2020 came 75 years after the announcement that Japan had surrendered unconditionally to the Allies, effectively ending World War II.

One resident at the care home, Bessie, recalls having a street party to celebrate with sports activities and sandwiches and cakes. Bessie said: “The gas street lamps were turned on when it started getting dark but because we were not used to them being on due to  blackout restrictions myself and some of my friends shimmied up the lamp posts and turned them off. We got into a lot of trouble!”

Another resident Joan shared her memories, recalling the moment she listened to the announcement on their wireless until the battery ran out. Joan said: “On VE Day we all dressed up; I was a bride, along with my little sister. There was a big street party, it was good fun.”

The book shares the memories of many local families and publishes the local news reports from the time, you can purchase a copy by contacting Marion Parsons directly (01793 750542 or mfparsons071@btinternet.com).

The residents at The Lakes Care Centre will be taking part in a 2-minute silence on remembrance Sunday to remember all those who lost their lives and fought for us.