Didcot resident shares key to long life on 100th birthday

Lucy Brown recently celebrated her 100th birthday at Alma Barn Lodge Care Home, where she has lived since January 2022.

Born in Somerset, Ms Brown served with the Auxiliary Territorial Service during World War Two, and was deployed to Didcot where she managed Italian prisoners of war.

Lucy Brown (Image: Alma Barn Lodge Care Home)

She married a soldier at All Saints Church, Didcot, in 1943, and has been a resident of the area since then.

After the war, Ms Brown and her husband rented a house in the town, until they could afford a home of their own, where they raised their two sons.

The centenarian's birthday was marked not only by festivities at the care home but also by a surprise from a hairdresser.

Laura provided a pampering session for Ms Brown with a hair wash and blow dry, complete with a tiara and sash.

A group of 40 children from Didcot Primary Academy visited to sing songs from Ms Brown's era.

Lucy Brown was joined by friends and family for her special day (Image: Alma Barn Lodge Care Home)

The children, who have have been practicing since March, also sang Happy Birthday.

One of the children, eight-year-old Felicity Quinn, said: “The whole experience had been amazing. It was lovely to meet Lucy and hear about her life.”

Sarah Scrivener, the choir teacher at Didcot Primary Academy, said: “It was an honour and privilege to be part of Lucy’s birthday celebrations. We wish her all the very best.”

Banners, balloons, and fresh flowers set the stage for a celebratory lunch and afternoon tea shared with Ms Brown’s loved ones.

Family and friends, who had journeyed from various parts of the country including Somerset, South Wales, and Bristol, arrived to share in Ms Brown’s special day.

Lucy Brown's birthday cake (Image: Alma Barn Lodge Care Home)

Their appearance was a surprise organised by Stephanie Crook, the home's activity coordinator, who had planned every detail of the day with Ms Brown's family.

Su Heller, Alma Barn Lodge Care Home manager, said: "Lucy's birthday is not just a celebration of her life, but a testament to the bonds we share as a community."

As part of the celebration, Ms Brown was presented with her favourite yellow roses by Ms Heller and a birthday cake made by Tracy Shayler, the home's assistant chef.

Ms Heller added: “Today, as we celebrate Alma Barn resident’s 100th birthday, we are reminded that every member of our care home is not just a resident, but a cherished part of our extended family.

"Here’s to a life well-lived and the joy of sharing this special milestone together.”