Basingstoke care home hosts 1940s garden party to honour D-Day

A Basingstoke care home hosted a unique tea party and commemorative ceremony to mark 80 years since D-Day.

Care UK’s Dashwood Manor, on Bradley Way, held the 1940s-themed outdoor celebration and lamp lighting ceremony for residents and their loved ones on Thursday 6^th June. 

To commemorate the 80^th anniversary of the Normandy Landings, Care UK partnered with royal pageant master Bruno Peek CVO OBE OPR, coordinator of ‘D-Day 80 Lamp Light of Peace’. Along with the three Forces Charities and the Merchant Navy Association, more than 100 Care UK homes took part in this nationwide tribute.

At Dashwood Manor, the team worked hard to organise a nostalgic day of live music, vintage games and traditional food – as the home’s café was transformed into a 1940s-style tearoom, serving vintage cakes and treats.

An exclusive performance by retro singers The D-Day Dollies delighted attendees, who were encouraged to dress in their finest period clothes and share their memories from decades gone by.

The special lamp, representing the peace following the end of World War Two, was lit by Dashwood Manor resident Roger Marshall, aged 84, who served in the army for 25 years. 

Roger joined the army at just 16 years old, as he wanted to follow in the footsteps of his father who had fought in the war. 

Roger said: “It was such an honour to be asked to light the lamp in recognition of past and future service personnel. Without them we wouldn’t be here today, so I was glad to honour my father and all those who served.”

Dil Perera, Home Manager at Dashwood Manor, said: “We were delighted to join this nationwide initiative and mark the 80^th anniversary of D-Day. 

“Reminiscence activities are a great way for older people, and those living with dementia, to connect with those around them and help maintain a sense of identity. The residents have been sharing their own stories and memories – it’s been fantastic to hear everyone’s experiences and learn from one another.

“It really was a heartfelt day for everyone involved.” 

To find out more about how Care UK has supported the initiative, please visit: careuk.com/dday-80th-anniversary 

Dashwood Manor – which opened in September 2021 – is designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives while also promoting independence. The new care home incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities with luxury facilities, including a café, hair and beauty salon, cinema, bar and gardens.