Thorn Grove Primary School brings Bishop’s Stortford community together to celebrate 80th anniversary of VE Day

Thorn Grove Primary School enjoyed a week of celebrations to commemorate VE Day.

The highlight of its activities was a tea party attended by Hertford and Stortford MP Josh Dean, mayor Cllr Richard Townsend, the town’s branch of the Royal British Legion, civic leaders, veterans, cadets, emergency services and community groups, including Bishop’s Stortford Food Bank and the Welbeloved Club.

Teacher and organiser Kathy Canavan said: “In addition to afternoon tea, our pupils regaled our guests with poetry, music, dance and art of the era.

“It was entirely our wish that such a momentous time be celebrated with guests who are members of our community and who work tirelessly for the benefit of others.

“Everyone was invited to join in rousing wartime favourites such as We’ll Meet Again and Keep the Home Fires Burning, which brought many a tear to our guests’ eyes.

“It was important for us to ensure our pupils expressed their understanding not just of the events of yesteryear, but also the importance of commemorating and celebrating the sacrifices made for us all and which we all enjoy today.

“I believe wholeheartedly that we must all share in the role of educators to help our youngsters to understand the history and legacy of the Second World War and why it is still so relevant today.

“Events like our tea party are unifying ones. It was such a joy to see the whole school community come together in such a spirited and jubilant way!”

Mrs Canavan also orchestrated the youth involvement in the VE Day service at the war memorial in Castle Park on Thursday May 8.