Generations unite to celebrate 80th anniversary of VE Day at Skelton Court care home

Residents and colleagues at Skelton Court care home in Skelton-in-Cleveland marked the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day with an intergenerational celebration. 

The care home welcomed local school children for a memorable day that brought different generations together to share wartime memories, create commemorative artwork, and honour the historic occasion.

The commemoration brought together residents from Skelton Court care home and children from Skelton Primary School, bridging the past and present to create a meaningful exchange of experience between generations.

Throughout the day, residents and pupils participated in various activities designed to honour the significance of VE Day, from sharing memories of wartime fashion and rationing-era recipes to comparing them with today’s music, clothes, and party favourites. They engaged in thoughtful discussions about street parties, community celebrations, and the powerful sense of unity that swept through Britain when peace was declared in Europe 80 years ago.

Creative activities formed a big part of the celebration, with residents and children designing colourful paper bunting. A highlight of the collaboration was the co-creation of a special commemorative painting destined for display at Kirkleatham Museum. Under the guidance of a lead artist, residents and children designed artwork that captured the spirit of both the historical event and what it meant to them. 

The project culminated in a special celebration where residents and pupils gathered to view their finished artwork, enjoy period music and refreshments, and reflect on their shared experience. Each child also received a goodie bag containing souvenirs of the project, ensuring the memories and lessons would extend beyond the care home walls.

Antony Griffiths, Home Manager at Skelton Court, said:

Our VE Day celebrations have been a truly memorable experience for everyone at Skelton Court. Seeing residents share their personal stories with the younger generation was incredibly moving. These moments of connection show how history lives on through the memories and experiences of those who lived it. As a home with Veteran Friendly Framework status, we take great pride in honouring these significant historical milestones in meaningful ways.

Rob Martin, Managing Director of Care Services at Anchor, said:

VE Day celebrations are incredibly important to all of us at Anchor, not only to commemorate such a historic moment but also to honour the personal experiences of our residents who lived through those times.

We understand the importance of creating meaningful activities that connect our residents with their memories and celebrate their contributions. The stories shared by residents are precious living history, and we're privileged to help keep these memories alive.

With an increasing number of our care homes, including Skelton Court, proudly accredited with Veteran Friendly Framework status, we are committed to providing environments where those who have served are recognised, respected and feel fully supported.

The VE Day celebrations are just one way we support veteran residents, ensuring those who have served in the armed forces have the care they need. Our partnership with the Royal British Legion, and 23 homes with Veteran Friendly Framework status, are helping to provide better access to care and support for veterans. 

For more information about Anchor's VE Day initiatives, please visit here.

Bob Baron, resident at Skelton Court, shares his reflections for VE Day 

At 93 years old, Bob Baron is a proud veteran and resident of Skelton Court Care Home in Skelton-in-Cleveland. He grew up in the charming town of Seaham Harbour, where he fondly remembers his childhood living by the beach. 

Bob was just eight years old when the Second World War broke out.

I remember Anderson shelters and gas masks being delivered, and food going on ration for a long time”, he recalled. “We had to carry our gas masks to school and be alert for the sirens.

At the age of eighteen, Bob was conscripted into the army and proudly served two years of national service.

Bob also remembered the atmosphere on the home front during those uncertain times. “Everything had to be blacked out, so everyone was panicking to get the blinds and turn the streetlights off”, he said, painting a picture of what life felt like under the threat of air raids.

VE Day remains a powerful memory for Bob, “The town was full of joy the day the war finished. It was nice to know the lights could go back on and we could all get back to normal”, he said.

Bob was one of several residents at Skelton Court Care home who shared their own personal memories of wartime Britain with visiting pupils from Skelton Primary School to commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE Day.

Speaking with the pupils was a touching experience for Bob, allowing him to reflect on his past through storytelling and giving the younger generation a chance to connect with living history first hand.

You can find coverage of Bob sharing his memories here.