What a busy week as Coddenham commemorated and celebrated the 80th Anniversary of VE Day.

On Thursday evening villagers met in the churchyard at St Mary’s to join with the nation in lighting a beacon.  Rev. Adrian Watkins blessed the beacon which was lit by Brenda Hudson assisted by her son, Joff.

The History Club had provided a display of wartime memorabilia in the Church which gave a fascinating insight into life in wartime Coddenham and the events in the village held to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of VE Day in 1995.  The display will remain in the church for the next week.

Saturday was the Church Coffee Morning and Plant Sale.  St Mary’s also hosted a group of around 35 from Suffolk Historic Churches Trust.  They enjoyed a talk about the history of the church led by David McDonnell.

On Saturday evening The Coddenham Centre hosted a Fish and Chip Supper with entertainment from The Three Chordettes. The fish and chips were delicious – thank you Moving Plaice!  The Three Chordettes had had a busy week including radio and tv appearances but were fantastic.  Their wartime songs created a great atmosphere and a singalong was enjoyed by all. 

Many thanks to Paul Bickers who provided his American army jeep – much enjoyed by the children.

On Sunday St Mary’s hosted a Summer Evening concert by the Ipswich Hospital Band.  Their varied programme include many numbers associated with the 1940s and WW2 and was a vey enjoyable way to end the commemorations.

Thank you to all those who supported the events as we remembered a momentous national occasion in our own ‘Coddenham’ way.

The Coddenham Community Response Group coordinated the events but, as usual were supported by volunteers.  A HUGE thanks to all those volunteers without whom these events would not be possible.