“Am I really 100? It’s only a number”
Margaret who lives at Queen Eleanor Court, a Retirement Living community in Amesbury, Wiltshire enjoyed a week of celebrations with friends and family for her 100th birthday, kicking off with coffee and cake with her fellow homeowners. This was followed by a family party in the shared lounge; a celebration with members of her local church, and a lunch with the Lady Captain and other members of Highpost Golf Club in Salisbury. When asked what advice she would give to the younger generation, Margaret says, “Take advantage of education and have something you believe in.” And her thoughts on reaching a century? “Am I really 100? It’s only a number.”
“A busy and active life”
Margaret adds, “I’ve had a really busy and active life and am now enjoying a slower and more comfortable way of living.” She grew up in Luton and worked in the town during World War II, admitting that it was “sometimes scary” but that it was her opportunity to play a role at the time.
Margaret married her husband, Geoffrey, who was enlisted in the Fleet Air Arm, and had two children. Together they travelled across the UK and the Far East before settling in Wiltshire in 1968. Once settled, Margaret and her husband joined the local golf club and Margaret remains an honorary life member having been the Lady Captain in 1990.
A century of change
Reflecting on changes she’s seen during her lifetime, Margaret rates the washing machine as the greatest invention for everyday living but added: “The introduction of the NHS and the research and development of modern medicines to prevent childhood illnesses” was so important.
Queen Eleanor Court’s House Manager, Nigel Warne, says, “Margaret always supports events and took great interest in the recent Olympic Games as her father represented Great Britain in the 1924 Paris Olympics, achieving a silver medal in the 3000m despite having been wounded in the battle of the Somme in World War One.”
Join a community-spirited retirement development near you
Whether you choose an independent living apartment with Retirement Living or opt for the added services of Retirement Living PLUS, our welcoming retirement communities host a range of informal gatherings, fitness clubs and charity fundraisers as well as big birthday parties.
Learn more about our retirement homes near you, call our friendly team on 0800 201 4811 or contact us online for more information.
