Rasen community groups encouraging participation in the ‘Stay at Home’ Street Party

Sammy (6) with her rainbow paving for the NHS

Over the past few weeks, people have been decorating their houses for our NHS heroes - and now the call has gone out to get decorating to honour our heroes of the past  and mark VE Day 75.

On May 8, 1945 the country celebrated Victory in Europe and to mark the 75th anniversary of this historic day  many events were planned.

However, the coronavirus pandemic means these events can not go ahead, but it  doesn’t mean the occasion can’t be celebrated.

Local residents are being encouraged to take part in the Royal British Legion’s ‘Stay at Home Street Party’ on May 8.

Decorate your home in red, white and blue, and have a picnic in your front garden.

Building on the success of the Maundy Thursday meal event, the town’s coronavirus support group is looking to come together once more to help mark the occasion.

Stephen Bunney, who  co-ordinates the group  said: “This is something that should be celebrated.

“To that end, we are looking to supply around 150 VE Day picnics for some of the vulnerable and disadvantaged in our communities.

“It is ambitious, but we know everyone will work together again to make it happen.”

The British Legion, English Heritage and other organisations are giving lots of ideas on their websites and social media pages of how to get involved with the celebrations on Friday May 8 - things such as making patriotic bunting, dressing  in 40s clothing.

There will also be a nationwide sing-a-long with Vera Lynn to be broadcast  at 9pm on television.

Special commemorative items are available to buy too through the Royal British Legion, which will help support the charity’s ongoing work with veterans.

Market Rasen Action Group has also put a number of links to activities and ways to celebrate on their Facebook page (Market Rasen Action Group News) and they are encouraging everyone to take part in the ‘Stay at Home Street Party’.

MRAG chairman Julie Lambie said: “This is epic; let’s make it the best lockdown street party ever.

“We obviously want to encourage everyone to stay safe and at home, but by having a picnic in the garden this is a great way of celebrating  this day in history.

“Dance on your doorstep and party in your garden, but please don’t break the distancing guidelines.”

Anyone wishing to make a contribution to the picnic parcels, which will be distributed at lunchtime on Friday May 8, can contact Stephen Bunney in the first instance on 07506 188570

Rasen community groups encouraging participation in the ‘Stay at Home’ Street Party

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