The highs and lows of the end of World War Two came flooding back for 93 year old Betty Smith when a VJ Day party was held in March to mark the 70th anniversary of the official end of the five year conflict.

Cambs Times: The RBL Women's Section held a special street party to commemorate the 70th anniversary of VJ Day. Betty Smith. Picture: Steve Williams.The RBL Women's Section held a special street party to commemorate the 70th anniversary of VJ Day. Betty Smith. Picture: Steve Williams. (Image: Archant)

Mrs Smith worked in London and was tasked with contacting families with either good news that their loved one was coming home or bad news that they had died in battle.

Mrs Smith, president of March Royal British Legion ladies section, served in the army in the administration department where it was her job to break news to families desperate to hear if their loved ones were coming home after Japan surrendered on August 15 1945.

Secretary Linda Mitchell, who helped organise the party, said: “It was a very poignant day for Betty, it bought a lot of memories back.

“We arranged the party so it was as true to the 1940s as we could, with traditional games, food and clothing.”

Carol Gowing made six dresses for women from the RBL ladies section using a vintage frock to make up her own pattern.

They sourced the traditional waxed paper jelly cases to make the desert and had traditional music bought in thanks to president Barry Howlett who took part goers back in time with the sounds of Glen Miller and Vera Lynn.

Local Brownies, who often help out at the group’s fund raising stall, were invited along as a thank you to enjoy the celebrations.