Parties with a 1940s theme boasting bunting, wartime songs and afternoon teas were part of D-Day 80th anniversary celebrations in Ipswich care homes.
The Prince George House on Mansbrook Boulevard welcomed guests to a party, and Asterbury Place on Aster Road held their very own lamp lighting ceremony, many having said they used to be in the Land Army or help out in the fields during the war.
Resident Stephen Gleed celebrated his 80th birthday on the landmark day, having been born on D-Day itself.
Entertainer Brian Shaw sung classics such as the White Cliffs of Dover, Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy, and When I’m Cleaning Windows.
A special Elvis song was sung for Stephen, with the pair donning sunglasses and sideburns for a rendition of Blue Suede Shoes.
Following a break for lunch, the home had an afternoon tea in their garden, which had been especially decorated for the occasion.
The day’s commemorations were put together by home team, led by senior care assistant Annette Aspinall and lifestyle co-ordinator Jackie Hammond.
Ms Aspinall said: “It was very important for us to do something for D-Day. A lot of our residents have clear memories of the war and D-Day.
"They had loved ones involved in D-Day, so it’s very special to them – a lot of them remember it very well and can become quite emotional, so it’s nice to celebrate them and their families, and recognise what they gave for our country and the sacrifices they made.
"It’s a privilege to show residents how much we appreciate everything that they and their loved ones did to give us the life we have today.”
Ms Hammond added: “One of our residents, Muriel, was telling me about her memories of the war.
"She has very vivid memories of a bomb going off in Alexandra Park, and her family members being impacted by the war.
"Events like today encourage reminiscence and allow us to embrace their histories.
"One of our residents commented this morning: 'Wow, that’s how I used to look back in the day’.
"It brings a smile to our faces as staff – we do really try and lift their spirits and fill their day.”
Elsewhere in the county, ceremonies were held in Christchurch Park, St Edmundsbury Cathedral in Bury St Edmunds, and Market Square in Haverhill, public beacons lit in parishes, and town crier proclamations.
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