SECOND World War veterans from Bromsgrove were given a VE Day anniversary treat from Age UK Herefordshire and Worcestershire - with pupils from a local school contributing a special touch.

After the Covid-19 disruption to planned events, the charity’s Veterans Service was determined to ensure war heroes it supports across Worcestershire were able to properly celebrate the 75th anniversary.

Age UK Herefordshire and Worcestershire staff and volunteers visited as many as they could before the big day, delivering a cream tea and other goodies in a Union Jack box, including a Union Flag.

And there was also a special card from the children of key workers from Millfields First School in Bromsgrove.

Among those the package was delivered to were five Bromsgrove veterans, including Albert Malin, 93, who served in the Royal Navy on D-Day and during Arctic Convoys.

Douglas Bennett, 92, who served in the Royal Highland Regiment, and Raymond Powell, 93, who was part of the Royal Scottish Fusiliers in India, also received a package.

The final two Bromsgrove veterans to receive the treat were Gordon Mercier 95, an upper turret gunner with the RAF Halifax Bombers and John Rushton, 90.

Mr Rushton served in the Royal Navy on the HMS Duke of York battleship and was present at Tokyo Bay when the Japanese surrender was signed.

Gemma Warden, Veterans Service’ co-ordinator, said: “It has been an absolute pleasure and a privilege to be able to give this small show of appreciation to people who gave so much for us all."