Party tributes to heroes of VE Day

Photo: Photo Paul Sterritt

MANAGAER Pam Taylor and organiser Chris Makinson in a dancing mood at Tesco

2 More Image(s) In Gallery

FROM ration books to the Lindy hop and seamed stockings to Jeeps, things took a vintage turn at the Old Bell in Delph as revellers celebrated the 70th anniversary of VE Day.

The highlight was a mint-condition Daimler Scout vehicle that had taken part in a VE Day Parade in London in 1945.

Trina Edmundson, from the Backstep Boogie dance group, helped visitors get into the party mood with a mix of jive, swing and ballroom tunes.

She said: “It’s great to see everyone up dancing. I feel it keeps the war effort alive and celebrates those who put their lives on the line for us — we should never stop being grateful.

“Events like this keep the memory alive and brings people together in a fun and wonderful way.”

Singer Katie Mustang travelled from Worsley to perform her repertoire of 1940s songs. She said: “I love everything about the Forties, and events like this have taken over my life.

Charlotte Jones, restaurant manager at the Old Bell, dressed as a wartime nurse to serve refreshments to the crowds. She said: “I love stepping back in time and seeing everyone soak up the atmosphere. Events like this fascinate me and its great to respect our history.”

At Earls Lodge, Failsworth, tenants celebrated with bunting, flags and evening entertainment on Friday.

Mavis Kish (79), Alan Kish (79), Roy Uren (85) and Bob Rathbone (75) shared their personal memories of VE Day.

Alan said: “I remember we had a huge street party. Bob remembers hundreds of people dancing in the street doing the conga, and Roy remembers singing Vera Lynn’s ‘White Cliffs of Dover’ in the street at the top of his voice. Mavis recalls watching Winston Churchill give the Victory sign on TV.”

twitter: @DawnMarsdenOC