Abbey View residents honour VJ Day with song and remembrance

Wartime memories came to life at Abbey View in Sherborne as residents and team members gathered to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan (VJ) Day.

The home was decorated with Union flags, bunting, and 1940s memorabilia, setting the scene for an afternoon garden concert led by our Music & Arts Partner, Fiona Pritchard. With vocals and guitar, Fiona invited everyone to join in with classics such as Land of Hope and Glory, It’s a Long Way to Tipperary, Jerusalem, and We’ll Meet Again.

“Everyone sang with great gusto,” said Companionship Team Leader Bev de Bruyn. “Our VJ Day anniversaries are always special moments for residents to share memories of how the war years shaped their lives. This year, marking 80 years, felt especially poignant and heartwarming.”

Among those taking part was 94-year-old resident David Froud, a former Captain in the Parachute Regiment. Invited to speak, David reflected on the importance of honouring those who fought for freedom.

The afternoon ended with warm thanks from resident Wendy Ash, who told Fiona and the team: “Well done! That was just so lovely.”

Abbey View’s VJ Day commemoration was one of several events held across other Colten Care homes, bringing together music, remembrance, and community to mark a defining moment in history.