Knutsford care home resident celebrates 105th birthday by revealing the secret to a long life

A 105-year-old Knutsford care home resident has revealed the secret to living a long and happy life.   

Vera Coulson, from Care UK’s Cranford Grange, on Hall Lane, marked her 105^th birthday on 18^th April with a special birthday party. Reflecting on her many happy years, she revealed the secret to a long life is to “live a spiritual life and always be kind to others”.

To celebrate the occasion, the talented chefs at Cranford Grange prepared a special afternoon tea for Vera to share with her friends and fellow residents. Ensuring the scene was set for the birthday party, the team decorated the home’s lounge with birthday banners and balloons – much to Vera’s surprise. 

Commenting on her 105 years, Vera said: “I really enjoyed reading the card from the King. I will have it near me for the Coronation.”

Vera was born on April 18^th, 1918 in Croydon, Surrey, alongside her twin sister, Dora. Despite being born deaf in one ear, Vera didn’t let this stop her pursuing a successful career, first working as a radio operator during World War Two, before joining the civil service and working for the Ministry of Agriculture and Fishing.

Lisa Burrows, General Manager at Cranford Grange, said: “It was wonderful to listen to Vera share her memories from her incredible 105 years, and to help celebrate such a momentous birthday.

“Here at Cranford Grange, we work hard to support residents to lead fulfilling lives, and celebrating special occasions and birthdays plays a huge part in this. We love any excuse to celebrate the amazing people living here at Cranford Grange and Vera’s birthday was no exception. 

“We were honoured to raise a glass to her incredible life and are privileged to have Vera as part of our Cranford Grange family – three cheers for Vera!” 

Designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence, Cranford Grange, which remains open to potential residents, incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities. The home has been configured into a series of neighbourhoods to help facilitate the creation of close-knit communities and encourage social interaction among the residents.

For more information on Cranford Grange, please call Director of Community Relations, Dawn Williams on 01565 817553, or email dawn.williams@careuk.com 

For more general information, please go to careuk.com/cranford-grange