STAFF and residents at Friends of the Elderly’s Malvern care home were transported back to June 1944 to honour D-Day’s 80th anniversary last week.
The D-Day landings on June 6, 1944 marked the liberation of France and Western Europe. It was a massive operation, with the invasion including nearly 133,000 troops and 7,000 ships from the British Commonwealth, their Allies and the United States.
Visitors, residents and day care clients enjoyed musical performances by singer, Judi B, who delighted everyone with songs from the era.
The care team donned 1940s costumes and one of the domestic team, Karen Packer, made beautiful textile land girl headscarves for the lady residents and the gentlemen looked smart in classic hats.
Clients from Malvern Day Care also looked stunning in patriotic red, white and blue garments. Everyone enjoyed a piece of Union Jack decorated cake.
“The residents and day care clients thoroughly enjoyed Judi’s lovely voice and the song choices,” said Tina Ellenton, activities coordinator at Davenham care home.
“Feet were tapping, hands were clapping and the residents and day care clients joined in with the singing at every chance they got. They had a wonderful time.”
In the afternoon, Friends of the Elderly Malvern welcomed some iconic Morgan Cars to the grounds. Residents and attendees enjoyed classic fish and chips whilst recollecting and reminiscing on wartime experiences.
“We wanted to honour, mark and celebrate the 80th Anniversary of such an important day in history,” said Jo Bennett, the General Manager at Friends of the Elderly Malvern. “Many of our residents, day care clients and respite guests lived through the war years and have vivid recollections of that time; so we wanted to commemorate D-Day’s 80th Anniversary in a special way.”
Shirley Bradley, Friends of the Elderly’s head of day Care services was responsible for arranging the classic cars.
“Morgan has been producing cars in Malvern for over 110 years,” said Shirley. “The cars’ characteristic, timeless design is so iconic.
“The residents and day care clients loved seeing the vehicles and enjoyed asking questions about their performance and design. The cars’ visit was a great addition to the D-Day celebrations at Friends of the Elderly Malvern.”
