I had an action-packed May Day Bank Holiday with visits to the Breaston Gala as well as to Canal Vue Care Home in Ilkeston, where Britain’s oldest World War Two (WW2) veteran, Donald Rose, was honoured with a Spitfire fly past.
Established in 2002 to commemorate the Golden Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the Breaston Gala has become an annual tradition which brings together residents from Breaston and surrounding area for a day of festivities.
This year’s event was once again a resounding success, with favourable weather and a range of entertainment suitable for all ages. Personally, I relished blending my own smoothie on a bike and of course enjoyed the dog show! A huge thanks to the organisers, stall holders, performers and residents for making the Gala a resounding success.
I also had the huge privilege to be invited to Canal Vue Care Home, where Britain’s oldest WW2 veteran Donald Rose, was honoured with a fly past by a Spitfire aircraft from the Lincolnshire-based Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. Donald watched on with a beaming smile, in a moment I’m sure he will never forget.
The fly past was part of a number of events across the country to commemorate the Second World War and pay tribute to our armed forces.
Donald, who is 109 and is a resident at the care home, served during WW2 at the age of 25. Most notably in the ‘Desert Rats’ serving in North Africa, and he also played a role in liberating Italy and France. Donald was awarded a number of medals during his service, including the Legion D’Honneur - France’s highest honour.
Having previously met Donald, it was a pleasure to once again chat with Britain’s oldest war hero, who was in extremely good spirits. It was also fantastic to see people from our local community, as well as from across the country, come together to pay tribute to our local war hero.
A big thank you to Canal Vue Care Home for hosting the party. It was a pleasure to celebrate Donald Rose’s achievements, who is an inspiration for us all.