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Richmond Villages Witney celebrated the 80th anniversary of VE Day with a special visit from RAF members, where two residents shared their memories from what was a momentous day in 1945.

Staff and residents came together to celebrate VE Day’s 80th anniversary with a 1940’s themed party, including a live singer, lunch and RAF Brize Norton personnel attending. The members of the RAF brought VR headsets with them which simulated a spitfire cockpit, for residents to experience what it would be like in the plane.

Two residents, Alan and David, shared their remarkable story about being together as young boys at a street party on VE Day.

The friends have since experienced countless events together and shared bonds over their connected families and continue to enjoy living side by side at Richmond Villages Witney.

Alan’s family were bakers and David’s were builders. They grew up as best friends and leaned on each other for support throughout their youth.

Alan commented: “We never went to a social event without each other, with both of our families together there were about 50 people.”

David said: “We have done everything together for the last 80 years, we’ve seen it all. We remember celebrating VE Day on our street with our neighbours and family, it was a really important day.”

Martin Crick, Village Manager of Richmond Villages Witney, commented: “It was a special day celebrating an important occasion with our residents. It’s heartwarming to hear Alan and David’s stories of growing up together.

“Everyone enjoyed speaking with the RAF members and using the VR headsets they kindly brought with them. Some residents had never experienced that technology and loved it. I can’t thank them enough for attending.”

For more information on Richmond Villages Witney, please visit Witney | Richmond Villages.