- Live Entertainment:
A nostalgic programme of 1940s-style performances captivated visitors throughout the day. Dance groups including SD Studios, Southzone Dance Academy, and Swatridges Academy of Dance delivered period-inspired routines, while local singer Archie Mac serenaded crowds with wartime classics, creating an authentic and joyful atmosphere.
- Charity Tombola & Community Giving:
A highlight of the day was the tombola prize draw in partnership with Beacon Foodbank. This activity not only engaged attendees but also raised nearly £270 for the local charity, reinforcing the centre’s community spirit and charitable ethos.
- Exclusive Offers & Tenant Involvement:
Boswell’s Café fully embraced the theme with special VE Day offers, while tenants across the centre contributed to giveaways, enhancing shopper satisfaction and overall participation.
- School Involvement & Visual Displays:
Pupils from Bosmere Junior School contributed vibrant Anniversary Bunting, proudly displayed on centre information boards and near a video carousel showcasing sourced real VE Day imagery. This display, alongside the Poppy Appeal’s commemorative VE Day pin badge stand, deepened the sense of remembrance and community collaboration.
- Competitions & Giveaways:
A social media competition — featuring a Spitfire clock, tie-slide, and cufflinks set generously donated by F.Hinds — added excitement online, helping to expand the centre’s digital reach and connect with a broader audience.
Results & Impact
Increased Footfall:
The VE Day celebration proved a significant draw for visitors, resulting in a 24.1% increase in footfall compared to the same day the previous year — a testament to the event’s success in bringing people together.
Digital Engagement:
The event had a strong online presence:
- 15,000+ reach on the VE Day social media competition
- 80+ interactions and 15 new followers as a direct result
- Post-event photo gallery and day-of content reached a further 13,000 users, generating 220 additional interactions on Facebook alone
Community Connection:
From schoolchildren’s bunting and charity fundraising to the participation of local performers, the day fostered deep community involvement and left a lasting positive impression on visitors of all ages.
