By Damon Sugden
There was bunting, cake and community cheer at St John’s Church Hall in Farsley, as the Friends of St John’s hosted a special VE Day 80 tea party for local residents.
Marking 80 years since Victory in Europe was declared in 1945, the event brought people together in true wartime spirit — with homemade bakes, music, and warm conversation filling the hall.
The tea party was a celebration of history and community, with plenty of nods to the past and a hopeful look to the future.
Organiser Eileen Sheller, also the church warden, said: “We’ve been planning this for around six months. Everyone’s pitched in — Malcolm put the tables up, the ladies dressed the hall beautifully, and lots of people donated cakes. It’s been a real team effort.”
Attendees enjoyed a lively atmosphere, with vintage tunes and a touch of swing adding to the nostalgic feel. “It’s been absolutely fantastic,” Eileen added. “A great turnout, and so much community spirit.”
Also supporting the event were the Pudsey & Farsley Branch Royal British Legion Branch, representing the local Veteran community and the Poppy appeal.
The event also served a fundraising purpose. The Friends of St John’s group regularly hosts events to support the upkeep of the church building — most recently helping to fund repairs to the church clock. Now, they’ve set their sights on restoring part of the church wall.
In addition to events like this, the group organises heritage walks around Farsley, sharing the stories of local buildings and the people who’ve shaped the area’s history.
Plans are already in motion for more activities later this year, possibly including another brass band event.
“We’re just a small group doing what we can to help,” said Eileen. “It’s about keeping St John’s going — not just as a church, but as a place for the whole community.”
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