Some quotes from people that were living in Belton at the end of WWII
“In May 1945 we celebrated the war finishing with a bonfire on the triangle of grass at the rear of the Old Hall where the Turners lived.” (John Corby)
“Yes there were dances. The one I remember most of course was the one to celebrate the peace of the second World War. That was such a spontaneous thing, everyone came, it was such a happy occasion.” (Joan Baines, ATS Driver during the War)
“We had a wonderful time the day war ended. He killed lambs and gave us all a joint of lamb and gave us double wages and give us the day off.” When asked if they had a party Betty replied “I think we ended up at the Rutland, then the Black Horse, then Great Eastern at night.” (Betty Wade, Land Army, Working for Captain Fairhurst)
“The end of the war saw a street party with tables and chairs in the school yard” (Win Griffiths)
“8th of May – Germany beaten – two days holiday all over the country – great celebrations in most towns. Belton had a bonfire at the Hall Trees, the village children singing and dancing round it till midnight.” (Excerpt from Charlie Wadd’s Diary)
See below some pictures from the Belton VE Day celebrations in 1995, dancing, singing with song sheets, fancy dress and a street party outside the Sun Inn.
