Dorset residents' 'touching and emotional' commemoration of D Day

Fern Brook Lodge care home residents were joined by the local Gillingham community to honour those who lost their lives on D-Day.

Following a service led by Rev Angus Mayhew., the Last Post was played on the cornet to signal a two-minute silence, as well as tributes and a poem from the Mayor of Gillingham, Cllr Roger Weeks, and Claire Davies, Deputy Home Manager.

Care home residents commemorate D-Day (Image: Care South)

A number of hymns and songs from the era were also performed.

Later in the day, residents enjoyed fish and chips for lunch, followed by a garden party with afternoon tea served by the care home team who were dressed in 1940s-style clothing.

Rosemary, who lives at Fern Brook Lodge, said: “I loved the day. The songs were thoroughly enjoyable and brought back lots of memories for me.”

Care home residents commemorate D-Day (Image: Care South)

Deb Wiltshire, Home Manager, said: “The residents in our care were pleased to welcome some of the Gillingham community into the care home to pay their respects on the 80 anniversary of D-Day.

“It was a very touching and emotional day for the residents, many of whom have links to the military as veterans, military wives, or as relatives of those who served in the forces.”