Thank you to everyone who joined us at the 80th Anniversary of D Day remembrance event on the evening of Thursday 6th June 2024. The service, including readings and music, was very moving and many who attended have indicated to us how much they appreciated the event. Those attending were welcomed by the ringing of the churchbells from St Andrew’s Church, as part of the national timetable. The evening was opened by a welcome by the Chairman of the Parish Council, Reverend Mick Gillespie, and there were then readings from David Hebblewhite, and a poem of remembrance was read by the Countesthorpe Scout Group. There was music, varying from reflective to tunes that would have been played to the troops 80 years ago. Pupils from the Greenfield Primary School sang three Songs of Peace - after they had made their entrance by walking through the Peace Arch. Probably not a dry eye in the house. Everyone there really appreciated the Peace Arch and the work gone into it by the Active Arts Group and all those who produced white poppies. The Scouts Group had produced white poppies and they took the opportunity to attach them to the arch whilst performances were being enjoyed by the LE8 Five Quintet. Rosemary Wright Accordion, and the Countesthorpe Ukulele Group. It was greatly appreciated that local residents Tony, brought along his model planes including a Spitfire, and Laura for bringing along two WWII jeeps. These were really enjoyed by everyone.
The Countesthorpe Scouts, Beavers, Squirrels and Cubs had worked hard on a poster with residents from the Cherry Tree Care Home which was on display, along with the Memory Board. Thank you to those who contributed to the board. It was lovely to see ex-servicemen at the service that had been able to provide us with some photographs.