Thatcham’s Best of British Market Brings Community Spirit Despite the Chill

Thatcham’s Best of British Market Brings Community Spirit Despite the Chill

Thatcham Town Council’s VE Day 80 Best of British Market, held on Bank Holiday Monday 5th May, proved a resounding success as the town came together to celebrate the 80th anniversary of VE Day – true to British form, with plenty of good cheer despite the bracing wind and cold weather.

The Broadway was transformed into a nostalgic nod to 1945, echoing the spirit of the original street parties that marked the end of World War II. Stalls offered an array of British produce and crafts, and the community turned out in style, many embracing the vintage theme with 1940s attire that added colour and character to the day.

The Thatcham Women’s Institute kept everyone smiling (and warm) with their generous servings of free cake and jam, while The Royal British Legion provided an important presence, offering insights and remembrance alongside their tombola. Kennet Radio’s soundtrack of wartime classics and community favourites kept spirits high throughout the event.

A special thank you goes to the local businesses who threw open their doors and joined in the celebration, helping to create a truly vibrant town centre despite the chilly Bank Holiday weather.

Families and friends made the most of the community tables, sharing picnics and freshly bought market goodies, embodying the togetherness and resilience that VE Day commemorates, and enjoyed the fire engine, bubbles and face painting which made the day fun for the whole family.

Thatcham Town Council is delighted with the turnout and grateful to all who took part – whether as stallholders, performers, volunteers, or visitors. Together, we honoured the past and celebrated everything that’s great about British community spirit.

There will be a service on Thursday 8^th May, 11am at the War Memorial to commemorate the 80^th anniversary of D Day hosted by the Royal British Legion and the Memorial Foundation.