VE Day at Gifford Lea

Residents at Gifford Lea retirement community in Tattenhall celebrated a socially-distanced VE Day with flags and bunting, traditional picnic boxes, a wartime sing-along and 1940's clothing, reflecting the sense of community they have enjoyed throughout lockdown.

Staff at Gifford Lea, which is operated by later living provider Inspired Villages, ensured residents had a day to remember to celebrate the 75th anniversary of VE Day on Friday 8th May. Residents were sent an official invite to celebrations, alongside small polystyrene aeroplanes and a replica of King George VI's letter to all school children of 75 years ago, celebrating the victory of WWII. Staff at the village also created a bespoke 1940's style magazine made up with residents own stories from the time.

Gifford Lea was decorated with bunting, whilst music was played through the village and residents enjoyed a singalong in 1940's clothing and traditional picnic boxes.

Jamie Bunce, CEO of Inspired Villages, commented: "Retirement can and should be the best years of your life. Our philosophy is centred around looking after residents' physical, social and mental health and encouraging them to enjoy a healthy, happy life. "We wanted to ensure that residents could still celebrate VE Day and have a day to remember this momentous anniversary. It was fantastic to see colleagues coming together to create a really special day for residents, so they could enjoy each other's company and share stories with one another, despite remaining socially distanced."

Inspired Villages has also created a 'Virtual Village Centre' Facebook page for the millions of over 65s across the country who are currently self-isolating to keep in touch with positive messages and handy tips. The 'Virtual Village Centre' was created so residents and the whole country can feel part of a digital community and interact with each other, friends and family, as well as receive important information, useful tips and videos on staying fit, healthy and happy, plus messages of support from famous faces including; Julia Bradbury, Mr Motivator and Dr Dawn Harper.

Gifford Lea is a development of stylish, modern apartments for over 65s with a state-of-the-art village centre – 'The Grange', which includes a wellness spa with relaxation pool, restaurant, bar, hair and beauty salon, and gym with cardio wall. There's also a café, craft room and library/cinema room.

For more information on Gifford Lea, please visit: www.inspiredvillages.co.uk/village/gifford-lea