Jayne Darling to Perform at Eton Wick Village Hall for VJ Day 80th Anniversary

📅 Sunday 7th September 2025

🕑 2pm–5pm

📍 Eton Wick Village Hall, SL4 6LT

I’ll be performing at Eton Wick Village Hall this September as part of the local community’s VJ Day 80th Anniversary afternoon tea.

It’s a proper 1940s event, with music from the wartime years, afternoon tea, a raffle, and a chance for the community to come together and remember an important moment in history.

🎙️ Two 45-minute sets of live vintage music
🍰 Afternoon tea
🎟️ Tickets £10 (adults only)
🎫 On sale from August

The event is being held at the lovely Eton Wick Village Hall – just outside Windsor – with free parking available on site. I’ll also be dressing the stage with bunting, sandbags and lights to help set the scene, as I always do for my wartime shows.

It’s great to be part of events like this – ones that mark key anniversaries while keeping history alive through music.

If you’re local to the area or know someone who is, feel free to share the details.

For bookings and enquiries:
🌐 www.jaynedarling.co.uk
📩 jayne@jaynedarling.co.uk
☎️ 07795 342639

Jayne Darling to Perform at the 46th Chesterfield Festival of Remembrance

I’m delighted to be taking part in the 46th Chesterfield & District Festival of Remembrance, which takes place on Thursday 6th November 2025 at the Winding Wheel Theatre, Holywell Street, Chesterfield.

This well-established event is a significant part of Chesterfield’s annual calendar, bringing together the community to honour those who have served — and continue to serve — in the Armed Forces. It’s a respectful and moving evening that reflects on past conflicts while also recognising the dedication of today’s service personnel.

Key details:
📍 Winding Wheel Theatre, Holywell Street, Chesterfield S41 7SA
📅 Thursday 6th November 2025
🕕 Doors open at 6.00pm, show starts at 7.20pm and finishes at 10.00pm
🎟️ Tickets: £6, available directly from the venue

The event will be held in the presence of His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant, Mrs Elizabeth Fothergill C.B.E., and will feature members and standards from various branches of the Armed Forces and civilian emergency services. It’s also supported by Chesterfield and district Cadet Units.

As a vintage performer specialising in music from the wartime era, I feel privileged to be able to contribute to events like these, helping to keep the music and memory of this important period alive. The performance will be filmed as part of the evening’s proceedings, adding to its significance and reach.

If you’re in the area, I’d love to see you there. And if you’re organising your own remembrance event or vintage celebration and would like to enquire about a performance, feel free to get in touch:

🌐 www.jaynedarling.co.uk
📩 jayne@jaynedarling.co.uk
☎️ 07795 342639

Kind regards,
Jayne x

Looking Ahead: Performing at the 80th Anniversary of WWII’s End in Hereford

I’ve been invited to perform at a really special event coming up on 3rd August 2025 at the Hay Craft Centre in Hereford, marking 80 years since the end of World War II.

The event has been organised to unveil a commemorative bench featuring the names of local men who lost their lives during the war – a powerful and permanent reminder of their bravery and sacrifice. It’s being put together by Kelvyn Jenkins and the team, and will be a chance for the community to come together to remember and reflect.

There’ll be a short service led by Canon Paul Wright, including the Last Post and a moment of silence, followed by music (that’s where I come in!). I’ll be singing a selection of vintage and wartime classics – songs that still mean so much, even eight decades on.

After the formal part of the day, there’ll be refreshments and a chance for people to stay, chat, and share stories. Events like this always feel incredibly personal, especially with family members of the fallen invited to attend.

If you’re in the Hereford area and would like to come along, you’re very welcome. And if you are related to any of the names being remembered, Kelvyn would really like to hear from you.

It’s a real privilege to be part of something like this – and I’m looking forward to seeing everyone there.

🌐 www.jaynedarling.co.uk
📩 jayne@jaynedarling.co.uk
☎️ 07795 342639

I’m really pleased to be performing at Miss Bella’s Blooms 10th Birthday Celebration on Saturday 25th October 2025, taking place at the stunning Newark Town Hall Ballroom & Council Chamber.

Located in the heart of Newark-on-Trent, this historic venue is a fantastic backdrop for a day filled with vintage stalls, live music, dancing and good company. If you’re a fan of vintage style, retro shopping or just fancy a laid-back day out with a brilliant atmosphere, this is definitely one to add to your diary.

I’ll be singing throughout the day with a mix of 1940s and vintage classics, perfect for anyone who enjoys live music and a bit of nostalgia. Whether you’re popping in for a browse or staying all afternoon, it’ll be lovely to see some familiar faces.

There’ll also be refreshments available – from tea and cake to snacks and drinks at the bar – and entry is just £3 on the door.

Event Details:
Newark Town Hall, Newark, Nottinghamshire
Saturday 25th October 2025
11am – 5pm
£3 entry (pay on the door)

The event is organised by  Miss Bella’s Blooms, celebrating 10 years of her wonderful vintage business. Expect a brilliant mix of traders, stalls and entertainment – with regular updates to follow on her social media channels.

For bookings and performance enquiries:
www.jaynedarling.co.uk
jayne@jaynedarling.co.uk
07795 342639

Marking VE Day 80 with Blind Veterans UK in Elmswell

Last weekend I had the absolute pleasure of performing my final VE Day 80 event, singing for the wonderful community supported by Blind Veterans UK. The event took place at The Blackbourne Community Centre in Elmswell, Suffolk, and brought together veterans and volunteers for a relaxed afternoon tea full of conversation, music and memories.

About Blind Veterans UK
Blind Veterans UK is a national charity that supports ex-Service personnel who have lost their sight, whether during their time in service or later in life. Their work provides rehabilitation, training, emotional support and a sense of community to help veterans regain independence and confidence after sight loss. It was a privilege to be part of one of their events, which focus on companionship, shared experiences and ongoing support.

An Afternoon with Remarkable Guests
Among the guests were two incredibly inspiring veterans: Robbie Hall and Jim Grant.

Robbie Hall, now 102 years old, is a female World War II veteran who joined the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force after lying about her age at just 17. During the war, she worked in the accounts section of RAF Bomber Command, helping to keep vital Air Ministry documents and regulations up to date. At the time of the D-Day landings, Robbie was stationed with Fighter Command. Her boss during part of her service was none other than Sir Arthur “Bomber” Harris, one of the most notable figures in RAF history.

Jim Grant, who recently celebrated his 100th birthday, served in the Royal Navy and was part of the Arctic and Atlantic Convoys during World War II. His wartime service included the notable role of escorting Winston Churchill across the Atlantic – a truly unique experience that not many can lay claim to. Jim’s stories were not only fascinating but a reminder of just how vital the contributions of these men and women were.

Many of the veterans at the event had only recently returned from a visit to Buckingham Palace, part of the national VE Day 80 commemorations, and were still full of pride and excitement from the occasion. It was a real joy to perform for such a warm and welcoming group, and to mark this important anniversary in such meaningful company.

Planning a Vintage-Themed Event?
If you’re organising an event and looking to include live entertainment with a vintage twist – whether it’s 1940s wartime classics, a singalong or swing set – I’d love to be involved. I regularly perform across the UK and offer bespoke performances for care homes, community groups, heritage events and private parties.

To find out more or make a booking, you can contact me via:
Website: www.jaynedarling.co.uk
Email: jayne@jaynedarling.co.uk
Phone: 07795 342639

T

 Top Tips for a Brilliant VE Day 80 Event 

With 1940s Vintage Singer Jayne Darling

Here are some ideas to help your event run smoothly and bring that authentic wartime spirit to life – whether it’s a community gathering, care home celebration, or something more formal.

🎶 1. Set the Scene with Decor

You don’t have to go overboard – just a few touches go a long way:

• Union Jack bunting, flags or red/white/blue tablecloths   
• Posters from the era (“Keep Calm”, “Dig for Victory”, etc.)
• Table centrepieces with ration cards, tea tins, or wartime props
• Baskets of fake veg, vintage crockery, or a string of warm lights for a street party atmosphere
• Waving flags for the tables – small flags are fairly inexpensive and can be purchased off Ebay for around 10 – 15 pence each depending on quantity
• Cargo netting and sand bags – cargo netting can be purchased from Army and Navy stores as can empty sand bags.  Sandbags can be filled with scrunched up newspaper or old duvets and pillows

 

☕ 2. Keep Refreshments Traditional

• Serve up afternoon tea – sandwiches, sausage rolls, Victoria sponge, scones
• Have a cake baking or cake decoration competition!
• Or keep it simple with tea in teapots, enamel mugs, and a biscuit tin
• Some venues do a wartime-style ration bag with a cheese sandwich, an apple and a bit of cake – fun and easy!
• Maybe try some wartime specialities – think spam or bread and dripping!

🎩 3. Encourage Guests to Dress the Part

It really helps bring people together and sets the mood. Suggest:

• Victory rolls, curls, red lipstick, headscarves for the ladies 
• Flat caps, braces, or military-style jackets for the gents
• Doesn’t have to be full fancy dress – just a nod to the era works well
• Tea dresses for the ladies – ladies in the 40s also wore hats and gloves.  Seamed stockings were a luxury and scarce!
• Make your own gas mask box, a small box covered in brown paper and some string should do the trick!

 

Simple Tips for a Lovely Vintage Look

You don’t need a full costume to join in the fun – just a few touches can help you get that classic 1940s style!

💄 Hair & Make-up

• Victory rolls – iconic 1940s hairstyle! There are loads of tutorials online if you fancy giving it a go 
• Headscarf or turban – tied around your hair Rosie-the-Riveter style – ideal if you don’t want to faff with curls
• Red lipstick & winged eyeliner – the quickest way to vintage-up any outfit
• Keep make-up simple, polished, and classic
• Want those 1940s style curls?  Damp hair, setting lotion or mousse and sleep in some foam rollers or pin curls. 

👚 Clothing

You don’t need to buy anything new – have a look at what’s already in your wardrobe!

Look out for:

• Tea dresses or shirt dresses – floral, polka dot, or block colours all work well
• High-waisted skirts with a tucked-in blouse
• Knitted cardigans or short jackets
• Trousers, dungarees or a boiler suit for a land girl or factory worker look

👠 Shoes & Accessories

• Low block heels, brogues or even pumps will do
• Seamed tights or bare legs with ankle socks
• Add a brooch, pearls or a simple handbag to finish the look
• Gloves and a little hat or fascinator if you’re feeling fancy
• Not got any seamed tights or stockings?  An eyeliner pencil and someone with a steady hand will be just the job!  Women used to stain their legs with gravy browning, tea or even sand!

💡 Quick Outfit Ideas

• Land Girl: Green jumper, dungarees, headscarf, wellies or boots
• Housewife style: Shirt dress, apron, rollers/headscarf, red lippy
• For a more dressed-up look: Tea dress, heels, clutch bag, pearls, hat

it’s more about the spirit of the event than getting it perfect. And if all else fails: red lipstick + a headscarf = instant vintage!

Maybe offer a small prize for best dressed?

🎤 4. Make the Most of the Music

I’ll bring the 1940s vocals and nostalgia – you can help create atmosphere by:

• Having people seated comfortably for a singalong
• Leaving space for dancing – a bit of a jive or a waltz goes down a treat
• Printing out song sheets for the patriotic songs 

📸 5. Capture the Moment

Set up a photo corner or just encourage guests to take snaps –

• You could print a few for guests afterwards as a keepsake
• Or collect them for a community noticeboard or newsletter

🎤 6. Optional Extras

Depending on your event, you could also consider:

• A short wartime quiz or bingo game
• A toast or moment of reflection for those who served,  I have the last post on my Ipad which I can play
• Invite a local Army veteran or history speaker to say a few words

 

VE Day in Britain in 1945 was a massive moment – after six years of war, people were finally able to let off steam and celebrate. It was a spontaneous, joyful day, and while people didn’t have much (rationing was still in full swing), that didn’t stop them throwing a proper knees-up!

Here’s what a typical VE Day celebration might have looked like:

🇬🇧 Street Parties

Communities came together to decorate streets with homemade bunting, flags, and streamers – often made from scraps or whatever they could find. Long tables were set up in the street and everyone brought something to share. These were proper community efforts – even if it was just a bit of jam or a few sandwiches.

🥪 Food (despite rationing!)

Food was still strictly rationed, so people got creative. Some typical treats you might have found:

• Jam sandwiches
• Mock cream cakes (made with marg and icing sugar!)
• Eggless sponge cakes
• Spam or corned beef sandwiches
• Jelly if anyone had powdered gelatine or a tin
• Dripping on bread
• Potato salad (as spuds were still easy to get)
• Homemade ginger beer or National Lemonade

There was a lot of sharing and pooling of rations – people would use up whatever they had tucked away. And of course, anyone who had access to a bit of booze would have brought that out too!

🎶 Music & Dancing

Music was key – lots of dancing and singalongs!

• Big band music and swing from Glenn Miller, Vera Lynn, Benny Goodman, etc.
• Vera Lynn’s “We’ll Meet Again” and “The White Cliffs of Dover” would have been sung everywhere.
• Families gathered round the wireless for Winston Churchill’s speech and the King’s broadcast.
• People would dance the Lambeth Walk, Jitterbug, or just have a bit of a knees-up!
• If someone had a piano, it would be wheeled out and someone would get stuck in.

🎉 Party Games

Simple, old-fashioned games were popular – nothing fancy:

• Pass the parcel
• Musical chairs
• Pin the tail on the donkey
• Egg and spoon races
• Three-legged races
• Wheelbarrow races
• Tug of war

Children were a big part of it all – lots of excitement, sugar rushes, and running about the street.

Even though times were tough, VE Day was full of joy and relief. People were exhausted, grieving, and uncertain about the future – but for that one day, the whole country stopped to celebrate and take a breath!

If you’d like help planning the flow of the event around the performance, I’m always happy to advise – just let me know.

Looking forward to bringing the spirit of the 1940s to you!

Celebrate VE80: Tips for Hosting a Memorable Party to Mark 80 Years Since Victory in Europe

The 8th of May 2025 marks 80 years since Victory in Europe Day, a momentous occasion that signalled the end of World War II in Europe. VE80 is a wonderful opportunity to honour the heroes of the past, reflect on our history, and celebrate peace and unity with family, friends, and community. If you’re planning to host a VE80 celebration, here are some tips to ensure your event is both meaningful and enjoyable.

1. Choose a Theme

Bring a touch of the 1940s to your party by embracing a wartime or post-war theme. Encourage your guests to dress in vintage-inspired outfits such as tea dresses, military uniforms, or classic 1940s attire. You could decorate your space with bunting, Union Jack flags, and posters reminiscent of the era.

For music, consider hiring a vintage singer to perform wartime classics. Artists like Vera Lynn and Glenn Miller are iconic choices to evoke the spirit of the time. If you’re looking for a live performance, someone like Jayne Darling (yes, that’s me!) could bring a touch of authentic nostalgia to your event.

2. Plan a Community Gathering

VE Day was a time of togetherness, and a street party is a great way to celebrate this milestone. Speak with your neighbours about hosting a joint event in your street or local community space. Arrange tables for shared food, games for children, and even a singalong of classic wartime songs.

If organising a community event, don’t forget to check any local council permissions needed for road closures or public gatherings.

3. Serve 1940s-Inspired Food and Drinks

Take a step back in time with a menu inspired by the 1940s. Finger sandwiches, Victoria sponge cakes, sausage rolls, and jelly desserts were all popular during the era. Why not offer drinks like tea served in vintage china cups or a traditional cordial? For a bit of fun, you could create ration-style food hampers for guests.

For a modern twist, you can still add favourites like cupcakes or a celebratory VE80 cake decorated with patriotic colours.

4. Reflect and Remember

While VE Day is a celebration, it’s also a time to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who lived through the war. Include a moment of remembrance in your event, whether it’s a reading of a wartime poem, a two-minute silence, or a toast to the brave men and women who fought for freedom.

You could also encourage guests to share stories from their own family histories or display wartime memorabilia as a conversation starter.

5. Entertainment Ideas

Keep your guests entertained with activities suitable for all ages. Here are some suggestions:

• Dance Floor: Play swing music and encourage a bit of 1940s-style dancing. A quick dance lesson could be a great addition.
• Games: Organise games like sack races, egg and spoon races, or a tug-of-war for that classic street party vibe.
• Quiz: Host a WWII-themed quiz to test everyone’s knowledge of the era.
• Photo Booth: Set up a photo booth with vintage props such as hats, military helmets, and ration books for some memorable pictures.

6. Spread the Word

If you’re hosting a larger event, create some simple flyers or use social media to invite your friends and neighbours. Be sure to highlight the key details like date, time, location, and any theme or dress code.

7. End on a High Note

End the evening with a toast to peace and unity. If possible, coordinate your event with local or national commemorations, such as listening to special broadcasts or joining in with a public display like fireworks or a light show.

Final Thoughts

VE80 is a unique opportunity to bring people together, celebrate the triumph of peace over conflict, and reflect on how far we’ve come. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a big street party, adding thoughtful touches to your event will ensure it’s a day to remember.

 

 

Alford 1940s Weekend: A Jolly Jaunt Back in Time

Ah, the Alford 1940s Weekend! Where else can you step back into an era when stockings were seamed, and spam was a luxury item? Darren and I arrived Friday evening with time to spare, eager to immerse ourselves in the nostalgia. After all, who wouldn’t want to relive the days of ration books and Victory Rolls?

First things first, we caught up with the lovely Bridget and Simon from the Lah Di Dahs, and the delightful Eleanor Mattley, who brought along her mum and the ever-charming Jack, a fabulous two-year-old with a smile that could melt even the sternest Home Guard. With so many familiar faces, it was already shaping up to be a splendid weekend.

We then decided to indulge in some proper British fare—fish and chips from the Jolly Friar. Now, if you’ve never had the pleasure of devouring your fish and chips in Alford’s market square, you’ve truly missed out. There’s something about the combination of crispy batter, golden chips, and the gentle hum of distant Glenn Miller tunes that just makes everything taste better. We sat there, munching away, and soaking in the atmosphere, feeling as though we’d been transported straight back to 1943.

After filling our bellies, we checked into our cosy Airbnb in Sutton on Sea, hosted by the wonderful Stephanie. She’s the kind of host who makes you feel like you’ve arrived at your favourite aunt’s house—warm, welcoming, and with a kettle that’s always on. A good night’s sleep was in order because Saturday was promising to be quite the adventure.

Saturday arrived, blustery as ever, but that didn’t dampen our spirits. The stage was set in the market place, right next to a majestic Spitfire—a sight to behold! Sharing the stage with Eleanor Mattley and Kyle Evans as George Formby was an absolute treat. The wind might have been playing havoc with our hair, but the crowd’s enthusiasm kept us going strong. Honestly, there’s nothing quite like belting out a tune while trying to keep your dress from flying over your head.

Saturday night was the grand dance, a chance to let our hair down and say a massive thank you to June, Denver, Bob, and Dan, who have been the heart and soul of the Alford 1940s Weekend for the past four years. Their dedication is nothing short of heroic—after all, who else could create four miles of bunting without going completely barmy? The dance itself was brilliant, with Major Swing and Kitty leading the way. We ended the night in true 1940s style, doing the conga through the market place, only to find ourselves locked out of the Corn Exchange! There’s nothing quite like a good laugh to end a fantastic evening.

Sunday greeted us with bright sunshine, perfect for catching up with old friends. We bumped into the Lah Di Dahs again, and it was wonderful to see so many familiar faces. The day flew by in a whirlwind of vintage fashion, lively music, and plenty of cups of tea (and perhaps a sneaky G&T or two).

As the weekend drew to a close, there was a bittersweet feeling in the air. It’s the last year that June, Bob, and Dan will be organising the event, and it’s hard to imagine Alford 1940s Weekend without them. But what a weekend it was! Full of laughter, memories, and that special camaraderie that only comes from stepping back in time with a bunch of wonderful people.

So, until next time, keep calm, carry on, and if you ever find yourself near Alford, make sure to pop by the Jolly Friar for some of the best fish and chips you’ll ever taste!

Jayne Darling

 

Exciting News: Performing at

I’m thrilled to share some exciting news with you all! On Sunday, 25th August 2024, I’ll be performing alongside the fabulous Lah Di Dahs at the Buxton Heritage Weekend. This special event will take place at several iconic locations in Buxton, including The Crescent, The Square, and Spring Gardens.

The Buxton Heritage Weekend is organised by J T Events in partnership with the Buxton Crescent Heritage Trust. It’s a fantastic celebration of Buxton’s rich historical past and a glimpse into the heritage of the future. The event promises to be a delightful mix of history, culture, and, of course, live music!

As a vintage singer, I can’t wait to bring some classic tunes to life and share the stage with the talented Lah Di Dahs. It’s always a joy to perform in such a historic  setting, and I’m looking forward to being a part of this wonderful celebration.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a music lover, or simply looking for a fun day out with the family, Buxton Heritage Weekend has something for everyone. So, mark your calendars and join us for a day full of entertainment, exploration, and community spirit.

I can’t wait to see you all there and share this amazing experience with you. Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to the event. Let’s make this a day to remember!