The Blesma voice is ringing out loud and proud with a virtual chorus of the wartime classic We’ll Meet Again to mark the 75th anniversary of VE Day.

Members, staff and supporters have come together to produce a unique track, with each recording their individual versions of the Dame Vera Lynn song that kept spirits high in the dark days of the Second World War.

They recorded their choruses at home and the Association’s technical wizards have combined these to create a commemorative track which will be part of a national rendition of the song at 9pm today. (Friday)

The voices of modern injured veterans joining in the song provide a poignant moment to remember and honour the sacrifices of war. Professional soprano Alicia Lowes has also lent her incredible voice to the choir.

Lockdown restrictions mean it is impossible for us to get together as we might like to commemorate VE Day but the virtual choir is the next best thing and Blesma is delighted to play our part for this important anniversary in our history.

Blesma Members admitted their singing voices were not necessarily choir quality but they were thrilled to ‘belt out’ the song as part of the tribute.

Blesma Member Patricia Welsh, from Tavistock, said: “It’s been fun. I cannot sing for toffee but I did try and I wanted to enter into the spirit of things!’

Tracey Mooney added: “'I’m really looking forward to seeing it all. Thank you for letting me be part of it.”

The national campaign is asking people to sing We’ll Meet Again from their houses to overcome pandemic restrictions. The singalong will be led by Dame Vera Lynn herself from a window of her Sussex home, and will take place at 9pm on Friday, May 8, after the Queen has made a special address to the UK. This will be shown live on BBC One as part of the televised musical event titled VE DAY 75: The People's Celebration.

A special thank you

Members: Mike Screech, Martin Kettrick, Susi Rodgers Hartley, Janet Riddell

Staff: Boston Mwense, Dean Bartholemew, Frankie Mapes (The Drive Project)

Supporters and Family Members: Nina Marshall, Alicia Lowes, Tracey Mooney, Rachel Yarrington, Jo Larkham