More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
A charity will deliver 75 meals to elderly people and war veterans across the district to mark VE Day.
Age UK Thanet, Thanet Extra's charity of the year, wants to deliver the meals on May 8 to mark 75 years since the end of World War Two and to ignite people's fighting spirit while they are in self-isolation.
Charity bosses are appealing to individuals, businesses and community groups to donate £8 towards a meal for a veteran, whether that's a neighbour, a loved one or someone they have never met.
They can also leave a personal message that will be delivered with the meal.
Joanne Spiteri, fundraising manager, says the special veteran day buddy box will be homemade food made with love to remind somebody special that you care.
"A donation of £8 would pay for a single meal and a check-in with your loved one to make sure they’re coping," she said.
"A kind donation of £24 would pay for three meals each with a British flag to mark their courage.
"And a generous donation of £40 could deliver five meals to veterans, and/or loved ones."
Gerry Abrahams, one of the last Lancaster Bomber pilots, is one of Thanet's veterans.
He says he remembers being on leave in London on VE Day, but due back at base by the end of the day.
"When I found out, I sent a telegram to my CO that I wasn’t coming back and went to the West End (Piccadilly Circus) to celebrate instead," he said.
"There were millions of people cheering and shouting. It was a sight to see."
The VE day meal will be gammon, ham, potato salad, coleslaw, salad and a bread roll followed by a chocolate whip dessert, and delivered between 2pm and 4pm.
To donate a meal, call Age UK Thanet on 01843 223881 and specify if you want to donate for an unknown hero or have a special someone who you’d like it be delivered too.
