HARLOW charity, Rainbow Services were proud to organise a VE Day Afternoon Tea on Thursday for over 150 seniors to celebrate the 80th anniversary since Victory in Europe was declared.

Members shared war time memories, their family’s service history, photographs and medals prior to the event to contribute to a display for all to see. Some members arrived wearing uniform and medals proudly on display.

Many others got in to the spirit by wearing red, white and blue and British bowler hats or 40’s costumes.

Members were treated to a war time style lindy hop dance display by Maria D’s Dance Factory before tucking in to a delicious Afternoon Tea. Thomas Huttlestone played his trumpet and sang favourite war time songs including Pack up Your Troubles, Oh When The Saints and led a singalong of I Vow To Thee My Country. It was a wonderful sight seeing members singing, smiling and waving their flags! Regular club member Sheila attended the VE Day celebration and enjoyed her dancing session! She said “Rainbow Clubs are great for company, the things they arrange are great. The VE Day event was brilliant.”

Luke Culling from local company Chas Berger said “Supporting the 80th Anniversary VE Day event was an absolute pleasure. Chas Berger work closely with Harlow Council completing a variety of planned maintenance construction work across the town. We worked with our partner Harlow Rugby Club to provide a venue, which thanks to the generosity of Director Brad Smith, we could cover the cost of the hall hire and provide some additional hands to help on the day. Working closely with charities and organisations in Harlow is something that I am enjoying immensely.”

Rainbow Services are grateful to their team of club volunteers who worked tirelessly at the event to make it enjoyable for the members. Thank you also to Community Champions Gemma at Asda and Margaret from Tesco who provided raffle prizes and donations towards the event as well as volunteering their time. All of our volunteers also managed to join in the singing and have a little dance too!

Rainbow Services have 25 weekly social clubs all across Harlow, membership is free and clubs just ask for a £1 donation to cover refreshments. There are special events such as coach trips and afternoon teas throughout the year too for a small donation to attend. If you know of someone who would benefit from attending one of our social clubs or would like to come yourself, please contact Tracy on 07701 224342 or [email protected]