Veronica and Valerie share wartime school artwork for VE Day

Veronica Kirby and Valerie Giddings, now 85 years old, were the stars of a special Victory in Europe Day celebration at the Barry War Museum & Heritage Centre on Wednesday, May 8.

Presenting their school art from the historic day to a class of the town’s senior citizens, Veronica and Valerie joined others in sharing stories and memories from the landmark date which marked the end of the Second World War. The event catered to around 12 local seniors with a combined age of more than 1,000 years, providing entertainment in the form of a singalong led by Mandy Magrin.

Guests reminisced about wartime Barry, enjoying lunch catered by museum volunteer Margaret Hutcheson and her team.

Earlier in the day, pupils from St. Andrews Major CiW Primary School, Dinas Powys, were given a tour of the museum, gaining an insight into Barry’s wartime past and battle against fascism.

Among the exhibits are an original Second World War Anderson shelter, a First World War trench, and an authentic 1940s kitchen.

Volunteers further breathe life into the exhibits through re-enactments of the Home Front and armed services narratives.

The Barry War Museum, the only museum in Barry, features a series of free historical talks on local and military history, all run by a community of volunteers.

Boasting a 5.0 rating on Trip Advisor – the highest possible score – the museum also hosts school visits, offering an ‘evacuee experience’. Through this, young visitors learn the story of how children evaded Nazi bombings, with war-time re-enactors making the lessons captivating.

Glenn Booker, chairperson of the Barry at War Group which operates the museum, said: “Our VE Day celebrations remembered the stories and sacrifices made by former generations so we today can enjoy freedom and liberty.

“It was a true honour and great pleasure to welcome our special guests and to mark a momentous occasion in our history.”

Those interested in volunteer opportunities at the museum can get in touch by emailing bawmsocialmedia@gmail.com or visiting the museum’s website.