PUPILS from Sarisbury CofE Junior School marked the 80th anniversary of VE Day by hearing stories of those who fought for our freedoms.

Grace, from Year 4, told the story of her great-grandad Dennis Neale, during the school’s collective worship on May 8. He had been awarded several medals, the most special being the Military Cross awarded to him by King George VI.

It was awarded for his great courage when he protected an important bridge in Sicily during the Second World War. He continued to receive medals after the war for special services to the building industry, which were given to him by Queen Elizabeth II.

Grace said, “We must remember that everyone at the time played a very important part in the war effort and this is why it is important that we honour all of them on these special occasions. I felt proud to tell everyone about my great-grandad. He was one of the youngest officers to ever become a major in the infantry and had a special mention from King George for his distinguished service.”

Mila, also from Year 4, told fellow pupils about her great-grandad Danny Mills, who played for Portsmouth Football Club and even played for England against Scotland. She brought in his England cap to show everyone, and his special pass.

Mila said: “The pass gave him special permission to stop helping with the war and play football. I felt really proud of my great-grandad and I think he was really brave. It must have taken a lot of courage to be one of those people saving people’s lives and risking their own life!”

Pupils and staff joined in the nation’s two-minute silence and reflected on all of those who lost their lives to war. The children then spent the afternoon enjoying a special tea party and singing some Second World War celebration songs, such as ‘Doing the Lambeth Walk’, together.