VE Day Afternoon Tea Brings Generations Together at Charlotte Straker House

As the nation paused to commemorate Victory in Europe Day on Thursday 8th May, Charlotte Straker House in Corbridge held a vibrant afternoon tea party to mark the occasion. It was a heartwarming celebration that brought residents, their families, and staff together to honour a moment in history.

The Dining Room was transformed with decorations, delicious homemade cakes, and pots of tea. Residents and their loved ones gathered to enjoy an afternoon of live music, laughter, and reflection, with many dressing in era-inspired outfits to embrace the spirit of the day. Residents were treated to a performance by local singer Ruth Boyd, who appeared in character as a ‘land girl’ and treated guests to a lively set of wartime classics. Her songs quickly had everyone smiling, clapping, and even dancing.

The event proved to be a touching tribute not only to VE Day itself but also to the residents who lived through the Second World War and carry with them powerful personal memories of that time. Their stories, shared in the days leading up to the event, gave the celebration an even deeper meaning.

Douglas, aged 102, served in the Royal Army Ordnance Corps and spoke about the “relief” he felt when the war ended, after years of service abroad. Jo Cook, who was 21 on VE Day, recalled the emotional announcement of peace and the bittersweet joy felt across her village, where not everyone had made it home. Joan remembered the lights on Princes Street in Edinburgh “like a string of pearls” and Nancy, still a schoolgirl during the war, shared a more light-hearted memory of parsnips being the only food on offer at school.

Staff at Charlotte Straker House also joined in the festivities, donning 1940s-style outfits complete with headscarves, red lipstick, and vintage accessories to help set the tone and honour the era.

“It was a truly special afternoon,” said Steve Adams, CEO of Charlotte Straker House. “Hearing these personal stories and watching our residents come together with their families was a real privilege. Events like this not only celebrate history but bring our community closer together.”

With plenty of smiles, great conversation and live music, the afternoon tea was a huge success and a fitting tribute to the courage, resilience, and spirit of those who lived through the war.

Charlotte Straker House recently brought staff and residents together for a special staff awards ceremony, held as part of Skills for Care’s national Celebrating Social Care campaign, which ran throughout April.

The event recognised team members from across the organisation, including care, catering, domestic, and admin staff, for their contributions to daily life at the home. In a special twist, residents themselves voted for the winners of each award category, making the event a true reflection of the relationships build within the home.

Award categories included light-hearted titles such as “Most Talkative” and “Team Player,” with enthusiastic support and cheers for the winners during the presentations.

Wendy Adams, Locality Manager for Skills for Care, attended the event to present an award and speak about the essential role all staff play in delivering high-quality care. Wendy explained “Every team member, whatever their role, helps create a positive environment for residents. Events like this highlight how much that work is appreciated,”.

Chair of Trustees, Berenice Groves, also commented on the dedication shown by each member of staff daily “The commitment shown by our staff every day is clear to see, and this was a fantastic way to say thank you and celebrate everything they do.”

To round off the afternoon, all staff received a “Make Your Own Cookies” jar as a fun and thoughtful thank-you gift. The event was a great opportunity to pause, reflect, and recognise the people who help make Charlotte Straker House the high-quality home it is.

Pictured: Steve Adams, CEO, Wendy Adams (Skills for Care) and Samantha Willis, Home Manager at Charlotte Straker House.