'Don't panic!' Marc West celebrates the anniversary of VE day by signing up for the Home Guard. 'Stupid boy!'

On May 7 1945, the news Britain had been waiting for finally came – Germany had surrendered, signalling the end of World War Two and the beginning of celebrations across Europe – especially at one very special place on the edge of our county.

Upton House, the picturesque country retreat of Lord Bearsted had been transformed into a hubbub of activity playing host to a well-oiled economic machine – all in aid of the war effort. The family moved out allowing their banking business to relocate to escape the threat of air raids in London and thus shoring up the nation’s finances by keeping the wheels of commerce moving.

Over 70 years later, the nation still falls silent at 3pm on this date to mark the enormous sacrifice of those who died across Europe during six years of misery, suffering, courage and endurance. In the words of Sir Winston Churchill himself "we have never seen a greater day than this". And, as the mercury hit 25 during a rare May heatwave the Union Jacks and bunting were in abundance once more to honour that momentous day in reverence…and style!

As I was handed my papers upon passage through the sandbag-clad gates I followed the sounds of Hook Norton Brass Band to find servicemen, land girls and civilians alike keeping up morale in our oh-so British way. There was just time to enjoy a lovely cuppa and sausage roll (rations permitting) before being called up by Oxfordshire Home Guard for duty.

The re-enactment unit had pitched up camp on the terrace to portray life as it was during war. Despite the popular ill-informed image, these home front heroes were far from bumbling bank managers, panic-stricken butchers and stupid boys, but a vital line in the defence of the realm. At first, they trained with little more than broom handles and pitchforks, but by 1941 they’d fixed bayonets and were ready to fight for their lives.

As a new recruit, I’m issued with a Winchester P14 rifle and ordered to fall in. After a short route march there’s a rigorous drill including an arms inspection and gas mask check – all in the blazing sunshine. So, after falling out, I can’t wait to unbutton my thick woollen Hairy Mary jacket and sup a hard-earned half of “goodness” with my comrades in Mrs Miggins’ pop-up pub The Wheatsheaf.

And, we’ll meet again on July 9 when Upton rolls out the barrel for an evening of music and merriment. Bring a picnic and enjoy live jazz on the lawn as you dance the night away before the setting sun. Victory celebrations continue throughout the year at this award-winning attraction and there really is something for every age…or rank. Tickets for all events are available in advance from nationaltrust.org.uk/uptonhouse.