This photo from the collection of the Imperial War Museum was taken 75 years ago today, Christmas 1944, and bears the following description:

In the living room of their home at 28 Marsworth Avenue, Pinner, Mrs Devereux and her daughter Jean enjoy a Christmas tea party, with four of Jean’s friends. The table is laden with sandwiches and mince pies. In the background, the Christmas tree which is a gift from her father, serving in Italy, can be seen. The tree was purchased through the ‘Gifts to Home League’ of the YMCA. A portrait of Trooper Devereux is just visible decorating one of the branches, near to the top of the tree.

In the photo below, twelve-year-old Jean cuts the cake.