As part of our VE Day commemoration, remembering the experiences of the UK and world at the end of the Second World War in Europe, 80 years ago today, Hazlegrove was lucky enough to hear the memories of Michael, a founder pupil of Hazlegrove in 1947, and Arthur, a local Queen Camel resident who turned 13 on the first VE Day.

Both Michael and Arthur spoke to the school and shared their experiences of the war, how their childhoods were affected; tales of unexploded bombs on beds, evacuations, rationing, wireless radios, bonfires and the tragedy of loss, as well as the uplifting hope for today's generation to share a future 80 years without a global war, as they were lucky enough to enjoy 80 years of their lives without one.

The whole school sang Arthur a rousing 'Happy Birthday' and he, Michael and others from our VE Day veteran community then enjoyed a cream tea and birthday cake, with the dedicated attendance of our Year 8 scholars, who both served and conversed with our guests. A wonderful opportunity for the whole school to hear first-hand accounts of this hugely significant global event: thank you all, VE Day generation!