At Platinum Skies, our communities are built on connection, care, and living life to the fullest -together. This VE Day, homeowners across our locations came together to honour the occasion with a heartfelt blend of remembrance and celebration, bringing stories, laughter and music to every gathering.
Chapters, Salisbury: A Celebration in Full Swing
Chapters marked VE Day with a vibrant courtyard celebration filled with music, food, and community spirit. Homeowners and guests enjoyed a classic BBQ featuring everything from marinated chicken skewers to mozzarella and tomato salad, alongside prosecco and a keg of New Forest Ale - the community’s favourite, voted for after last month’s beer tasting with Downton Brewery.
Live 1940s music from Betsy Schrader filled the air, with homeowners singing and dancing along to toe-tapping classics. The day ended on a poignant note as Betsy performed “We’ll Meet Again” - a powerful moment shared under the sun and Union Jack bunting.
Quantock House, Taunton: Street Party Vibes
In Taunton, Quantock House transformed its Bistro into a nostalgic street party scene, complete with big band music (turned up loud by popular demand!). Prosecco greeted guests on arrival, and Georgie, one of our talented homeowners, prepared delicious cupcakes and scones for a traditional afternoon tea.
Homeowners chatted, laughed, and enjoyed a relaxed afternoon that captured the essence of community life - and a perfect nod to the spirit of VE Day.
Mulberry Fields, Sherborne: Stories to Remember
The Sherborne community came together for an evening rich in history, music, and shared memory. Homeowners contributed letters, photographs, and family wartime stories, including a striking set of images taken by one homeowner’s father, who captured the eruption of Mount Vesuvius while stationed in Italy with the RAF in 1944.
There was also a fascinating insight into Exercise Tiger, a tragic but significant prelude to D-Day, researched and printed by a homeowner. The evening was brought to life with live music from Jimmy Jay, dancing, and drinks.
Vista, Poole: A Toy Monkey with a Story
At Vista, homeowners enjoyed a beautifully prepared afternoon tea buffet, lovingly put together by one of their own. The highlight of the day came from homeowner Rita, who shared the remarkable tale of her toy monkey, Jubilee, gifted to her in 1934. Not only did Jubilee survive the war, but he went on to become a mascot for the Wellington bombers, renamed Letch by the crew - complete with his own handmade pilot’s uniform.
It was a touching reminder of the small, personal stories that carry great meaning and bring history to life.
Esprit, Poole: A Record Turnout and a Cream Tea Debate
Esprit hosted its most popular event yet, with over 30 homeowners, including several new faces, gathering for a day of reflection and celebration. After observing a respectful 2-minute silence at noon, the afternoon picked up with a classic buffet from Sainsbury’s and a traditional cream tea.
As ever, the age-old question sparked debate: jam or cream first? The verdict is still out! But with plenty of smiles and conversation, it was a truly enjoyable day that captured the warmth and energy of the Esprit community.
A Shared Spirit Across Platinum Skies
Across all our communities, VE Day was an opportunity to pause and reflect, as well as to celebrate the incredible people who call Platinum Skies home. From deeply personal wartime memories to new friendships formed over scones and song, this week was a powerful reminder of the importance of togetherness.
To all our homeowners, guests and team members who made these celebrations so special - thank you.
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