08 May 2025
On 8 May 1945, Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill addressed the nation at 3pm to announce a historic moment — the end of the war in Europe. Germany had formally surrendered to the Allied Forces, marking Victory in Europe (VE) Day.
To honour the 80th anniversary of VE Day, FirstPort residents and colleagues across the country have been holding celebrations with music, parties, and afternoon teas.
FirstPort communities have also come together to pay tribute to the service and sacrifice of the Second World War generation.
The occasion is particularly poignant for FirstPort resident Malcolm Howard, from Norwich. Known locally as ‘Mike’, a 102-year-old veteran of World War II, he was captured and held as a prisoner of war before being liberated by Allied troops. Once freed, he was flown back to Britain to recover before bravely returning to active service. Mike recently sat down with the BBC to share his incredible story.
Angela Kemp, Development Manager at Mike’s later living development, said: “Mike has led an extraordinary life and is always happy to share his stories. He’s incredibly knowledgeable and he enjoys walking around the development. We’re very lucky to have him here, and it was a privilege to celebrate with him.”
Residents also marked the historic occasion at a later living development in Burnham-On-Sea, with an afternoon tea, which raised over £300 for our charity partner, Tommy Club. The charity funds work with veterans of all Armed Forces in the UK via its parent charity RBLI, providing homes, work, and specialist support for veterans in need.
Since partnering with Tommy Club in 2024, FirstPort colleagues and customers have raised over £30,000 to help provide this vital support for ex-service personnel.
Commenting on the successful afternoon tea event, Development Manager, Yvonne Walker said: “Residents have expressed what a lovely afternoon they had, 28 joined us for the event and we also delivered afternoon tea to residents that were not able to join us in person.
“I had a great time, especially dressing up with two of my residents who really have embraced later living and are amazingly hands-on when it comes to events.”
