Celebrating VJ Day

HERE'S a souvenir programme dating back to 1945.
The brochure was put together for VJ celebrations being held at St Nicholas Church Hall, in Brighton-le-Sands, on September 8.

It was handed to Memories by Brian Newell, from Worthing Street, Waterloo, whose late wife, Wendy, nee Fennell, was invited to the event aged just nine.
Brian found the programme when going through old papers belonging to the family.
The front cover details the place, date and time of the event along with a request for Wendy to attend.
It also says that the opening ceremony was to be carried out by the Mayor of Crosby at the time, Herbert Preston Reynolds, JP.
Inside the programme, the organising committee members are listed, including: Mr A Newton, chairman and honorary secretary; Mr J Powell, deputy chairman and Mr J Corrin, honorary treasurer.
Also listed are collectors: Mrs E Birch; Mrs D Fairclough; Mrs A Mullen and Mrs M Newton.
Thanks is given by the chairman to the collectors, as well as to friends and residents who gave their support by attending various functions organised to raise funds for the VJ celebrations.
Mr W Brookes is also thanked for his kind gift of ice cream.
The programme for the day included all children meeting at St Nicholas’ School, followed by a mystery tour by motor coach, the opening ceremony and tea at St Nicholas’ Church hall.
Karino the magical humourist then presented his children’s hour, which was followed by games and community singing before a firework display ended the event.