Anchor care homes across Surrey come together to mark Remembrance Day

Residents and colleagues at Anchor care homes in Surrey have come together to mark Remembrance Day, with opportunities to remember those who served, share personal memories and connect with their local communities.

At West Hall care home in West Byfleet, residents, families and members of the local community gathered for the home's annual Remembrance Service. Pupils from Feltonfleet School joined the occasion, singing a selection of songs alongside harpist Danielle.

Led by Reverend Dr Keith Elford, the service brought different generations together to reflect and remember.

Among those attending was Geoff, 90, who lives at West Hall and served as a Senior Aircraftman in the Royal Air Force. He was awarded the General Service Medal in recognition of his service.

For Geoff, and others who have served in the armed forces, Remembrance Day is an opportunity to honour their comrades and remember those who served alongside them.

The service also gave residents the chance to reflect on their own experiences and memories. Gordon, who lives at West Hall and previously served as a naval lieutenant in the Royal Navy, said:

The Remembrance Service was really moving. It was lovely to hear the schoolchildren sing and to see them understand the importance of this day. It brought back so many of my own memories, and it meant a lot to listen to everyone sharing their stories and experiences. It made the day feel very special.

The pupils and their teachers also enjoyed being part of the occasion.

Eddie Reedy, a Year 7 chorister at Feltonfleet School, said:

Thank you for having us at West Hall. It was fun learning ‘Milha Bilou’ to sing for everyone, and it was a lovely experience. Thank you for the lemon squash!

Chris Andrews, Director of Music at Feltonfleet School, said:

It is always a pleasure bringing the choir to sing at West Hall. Huge thanks to Esther and the team for organising such a wonderful Remembrance Service, and for the thoughtful gift! The choir have decided that the forget-me-not emblems will become their new choir badges on their blazers! We look forward to seeing you again soon.

Reverend Dr Keith Elford described the occasion as:

A beautiful, poignant service that brought young and old together in such a lovely way.

At Moore Place care home in Esher, residents marked the occasion with a reminiscence session featuring wartime songs and familiar scents.

Many residents remember the Second World War from their childhood, and the music and aromas offered a chance to revisit memories and share experiences. People could take part in whatever way felt right for them, whether by singing, telling a story or spending time quietly reflecting.

Paula Rifai, General Manager at West Hall, said:

It was wonderful to hold our Remembrance Service with the local community again this year. For residents like Geoff, who served, and for those with loved ones they want to honour, it is a chance to remember together and to know that their memories matter. Having Feltonfleet School and Danielle join us made the morning even more special. It is a day that means a lot to our residents, and we are proud to remember with them, today and throughout the year.

Click here to find out more about West Hall care home in West Byfleet, and click here to find out more about Moore Place care home in Esher.