VETERANS from Royal Star and Garter met and chatted to His Majesty The King when they attended a national service at Westminster Abbey marking the 80th anniversary of VE (Victory in Europe) Day.
Solihull resident Bill Wheeler was at the service in Westminster Abbey, on VE Day, May 8, which was also attended by senior members of the royal family, prime ministers past and present, and other leading dignitaries.
After it finished, members of the royal family, including Royal Star and Garter’s Patron The Princess Royal, spent time speaking to guests at the Abbey.
Residents and staff from the home, which cares for veterans and their loved ones with dementia and disability, shook hands and chatted to King Charles, Queen Camilla, Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales.
Bill, who was just 17 on VE Day and serving in the RAF, said: “To be part of such a special day in such a beautiful setting was something I will never forget. It was an honour to be at Westminster Abbey for the service.”
Residents at the Tudor Coppice Road home enjoyed street parties reminiscent of those that took place on VE Day 80 years ago, with live music and delicious food.
In Solihull, Dr Neil Shastri-Hurst, Solihull West and Shirley MP, joined veterans on VE Day afternoon, and participated in a World Record attempt to be part of the largest cream tea party.
He said: “It’s always a pleasure to come and visit residents and staff at Royal Star and Garter.
“Today had a particular poignancy being on the 80th anniversary of VE Day. It was wonderful to join in the celebrations over a splendid cream tea and a sing-along with residents.”
