Thank you all for coming along to our events to mark the 80th Anniversary of VE Day. On Thursday, 8th May at 9am, the Town Mayor Cllr. Sue Ferguson, read out the Official Proclamation next to the Town's Beacon. Reverend Jeanette Kennett and Canon Lindsay Hammond then provided prayers. After this, the Civic & Ministerial Team attended Tenterden Junior School where the Proclamation was read again to all the children from both the Infants and Primary School. We were very priviledged to hear the Children sing 'Pack up your troubles in your old kit bag' and 'We'll meet again' and they sang so beautfully.
In the evening, Churches Together conducted a reflective Service on Tenterden Recreation Ground which was very well attended. This was then followed by the Lighting of the Town's Beacon by the Freemen Mr. Henry Edwards & Dr Raymond Crawfurd, and Freewoman Mrs. Debbie Greaves. It was a very special evening where the community came together to remember the bravery, the sacrifice, and the resilience of that extraordinary generation.
We were especially honoured to welcome Tenterden resident Colin Deverell DFM, Legion d'Honneur to the ceremony. Colin was awarded France’s highest military honour for his bravery supporting the French Resistance during the Second World War, flying with Bomber Command. Flying at just 500 feet, in good moonlight, Colin and his crew crossed France by night — south of Bordeaux and on to Lyons, near the Swiss border — parachuting vital supplies of food, radios, and weapons to Resistance forces on the ground. Despite facing fires onboard and enemy threats, Colin successfully completed eight missions, helping the Resistance disrupt German supply lines. Colin was thanked for his remarkable service; Colin celebrated his 100th birthday in 2023.
The final event took place on Saturday, 10th May with our Annual Veterans Lunch held in St. Mildred's Church Hall. We welcomed 16 Veterans and their guests for a light lunch and it was so lovely to hear stories and memories shared.
We will remember them!
