Carlisle children do their bit to celebrate VE Day

Pupils from schools in Stanwix and the surrounding areas have been creating art to be displayed on fencing next to the Crown & Thistle Inn in the Stanwix area of Carlisle and in the Post Office in Kingmoor.

The efforts have been led by Abigail Kilfedder of Artscool, who has been working with the children of key workers who are attending Stanwix School.

“Usually I do stuff for remembrance in Stanwix. In the past few years I have done projects at St Michael’s Church, around the school and around Stanwix.

“So I thought about doing something for VE Day. It is meant to be a big walk, so if we can’t do that I thought we have to do something.

“It is awful all the poor veterans should’ve been going to London for this massive event and now they are now cooped up indoors. It's about keeping kids reminded and thinking about the importance and keeping them busy as well.”

The primary school aged children have been enjoying getting hands on.

“It’s been nice to collaborate with children from other schools,” said Grace Bell, 10, who goes to Stanwix School.

“I’ve enjoyed doing art about VE day and working on it with some new friends,’’ said Lois Graham, of Kingmoor Junior School.

Abigail Kilfedder is passionate about passing on to the next generation the importance of remembering the sacrifice of those who have gone before.

“My grandparents died, so it is my job to keep that message alive.”

“I’ve really enjoyed colouring the union Jack flags. I think it looks brilliant,” said Jake Kelton, 11, of Rockcliffe School.

“I’ve really enjoyed drawing my portraits of the wartime leaders. It is for a very good cause and I hope my artwork is enjoyed,” said Cameron Smith from Kingmoor School.

Abigail says the pupils do understand the significance of remembering both world wars.

“They seem to. I’ve talked to them and made links to how things are now.”

Another of the pupils taking part, Anna Johnston, of Rockcliffe School, said: “We’ve all worked really hard on our art.”