Last week, our head office team in Wakefield joined the nation in commemorating the 80th anniversary of VE Day, a poignant moment to reflect on the bravery, sacrifice, and resilience of those who served during WWII, and to honour all those connected to the armed forces, past and present.
Our team marked the day with handmade wreaths, decorations, bunting, and a spread of homemade cakes. Through these efforts, we also proudly raised over £100 in donations for the Royal British Legion.
A heartfelt thank you goes to Eileen, mother of our Sales Manager Natalie, whose beautifully knitted creations, along with her delicious baking, added a personal and patriotic element to our commemorations.
We also took the opportunity to share personal stories that connect our team to the events of the past and the armed forces of today. Our colleague, Fay Sykes, recounted the service of her father, James Sykes, who joined the Coldstream Guards at age 20. After training in York, he served in the Africa Campaign in Syria and later in the Italian Campaign. Tragically, James' brother Ron, who joined the Royal Navy at 18, lost his life during a bombing raid on 28 April 1941 while in training at HMS Raleigh in Torpoint.
Continuing the legacy of service, Major Nigel Bamford, partner of Jess, our Head of Land & Planning, serves as a Commando-trained Major in the Royal Army Medical Service. His career includes multiple operational tours abroad, most recently in Afghanistan, exemplifying the dedication of our armed forces both then and now.
Across the UK, VE Day 2025 was marked by significant national events. Thousands gathered in central London for a military procession and a flypast featuring 23 aircraft, including the Red Arrows, observed by the Royal Family from the Buckingham Palace balcony. The commemorations also included a Service of Thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey and a celebratory concert at Horse Guards Parade, attended by King Charles, Queen Camilla, and other senior royals.
At Yorkshire Choice Homes, we are proud to have contributed to this national moment of reflection and gratitude, honouring the sacrifices of the past and the service of the present.
