A fantastic VE Celebrations Weekend was held on saturday 4th and sunday 5th of may at East Dene in Bonchurch on the Island, organised by Jayne Read.
The entertainment kicked off on the Saturday with the Silhouette Show, three young ladies singing in the style of the Andrews Sisters, which went down very well.
Among the attractions was a display of vintage vehicles ...
The Naafi wagon and pop-up tea parlour provided refreshments, along with burger and crepe stalls for the hungrier appetites!
Further daytime entertainment was provided by the excellent Ricky Hunter, and his trumpet.
This very talented performer took to the stage for a morning and an afternoon session. He performed many wartime songs along with an amazing trumpet rendition of pavarotti's Nesun Dorma. The day was rather cloudy, apart from a brief bright spell, which came as Ricky started singing "Bring me Sunshine", much to the amusement of the audience!
He finished his afternoon set and the close of the afternoon, with the last post. The standard was carried by Alan Williams.
On Saturday evening, a 1940's dance was held at the same venue. The evening consisted of a buffet with cottage pie or stew followed by bread and butter pudding. A dance demonstration by Derek and Claire Hartley in the style of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rodgers was very popular.
A 40's disco by Alan and Sylvia Williams, and a best dressed male and female competition was followed by a raffle to raise money for the Hounds for Heroes charity.
The main entertainment of the evening was provided by the Jim Thorn Jazz band. This mainly Ryde based act were very popular, and the dance floor was full for most of the evening. Around 100 people attended, wearing 1940s attire.
Alan celebrated his upcoming birthday with a superb cake, happy birthday mate!!
The following day, Sunday, began with glorious sunshine, which continued for the rest of the day, much to the delight of all concerned.
Alan and Sylvia caught up on some reading ...
Vectis 40's members, Dave Johnson, Alan Williams and David White took part in some re-enactment scenes ...
The bright sunshine brought out the colours of the girl's dresses ...
Tony was keeping an eye on proceedings ...
Dave in the Home Guard, and Carol wearing ATS uniform ...
And Ricky Hunter once again entertained the visitors ...
After many months of planning, Jayne was finally able to relax ...
A big thank you to Jayne for a wonderful weekend!
