Wetherby Manor care home remembers and celebrates 81st anniversary of VE Day

Residents and colleagues at Wetherby Manor care home came together in celebration to mark the 81st anniversary of Victory in Europe Day honouring the courage, resilience, and stories of those who lived through the Second World War. 

Wetherby Manor is home to more than one inspirational veteran, each with a remarkable story to tell.

Among them is 101-year-old resident Ivy May Farrell, who volunteered to serve during the war. Although initially turned away due to her height, she refused to give up and instead joined the Army where she was welcomed with the light-hearted promise they would “stretch her” to fit. Ivy went on to train as a military driver, standing out as one of just 30 women among 600 men. She looks back on her service with pride, not only for her contribution but also for the lifelong friendships she formed and for meeting her husband, William, whom she married in 1944.

Another veteran in the home, Peter Evans, lived a life of adventure in the RAF. After graduating from Cranwell, he honed his flying skills in Wales and learned to fly The Vampire, The Meteor, and The Venom jet fighters in Singapore. Peter holds especially fond memories of his later RAF career as a pilot with the Red Arrows. Even outside the cockpit, his appetite for excitement never waned, as he raced motorcycles on the weekend and even picked up a couple of trophies in the Isle of Man TT.

Also joining the commemorations was 103-year-old Daphne Turner, who served in the Women's Royal Naval Service (Wrens) as a teleprinter operator stationed in Portsmouth during the war.

I remember the night before VE Day so clearly. I was working the teleprinter night shift when suddenly the busy communication lines fell strangely quiet. That silence was actually the first sign of peace, though we didn't realise it then.  

For us at Wetherby Manor who lived through those times, these aren’t just moments from history - they're our memories. It's wonderful to celebrate this 81st anniversary together with friends, family and a community who understand what that day truly meant to us all.

Wetherby Manor was awarded the Veteran Friendly Framework (VFF) accreditation in recognition of its commitment to supporting the wellbeing of residents who have served in the Armed Forces. This includes ensuring that veterans’ experiences and needs are thoughtfully reflected in their care and support plans. 

Veteran resident Bob Robinson, said:

My time with the armed forces were very precious years to me. It means a lot

that 81 years later, we are still marking the day and taking time to reflect and remember those who gave their lives fighting for our country. It’s incredibly important that we keep sharing stories and learning from the past to protect the future.

Caroline Byron, Home Manager at Wetherby Manor care home, said:

As with a lot of Anchor care homes across the country, Wetherby Manor is home to some truly inspirational veterans. Hearing their stories of service will make anyone grow with admiration and appreciation for those in the armed services, and to support our veterans in their later years is nothing short of a privilege and an honour.

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