“A Guinness a day” 104-year-old resident shares the secret to a long life

A 104-year-old Cheltenham care home resident has revealed the secret to living a long and happy life.

Kathleen Hemmings, who lives at Care UK’s Sandfields on St Georges Road, celebrated her 104^th birthday with her family, residents, and team members.

Kathleen was born on 2^nd October 1919 and grew up in Brixton, London, where she later began a successful career as an accountant. She enjoyed spending evenings dancing in Covent Garden and regularly attended the Royal Opera House to watch operas and ballets.

After spending time in London throughout World War Two, Kathleen decided she wanted a taste of country life, and headed for the Cotswolds in 1965, moving towards Cheltenham with her mum, her brother Charlie, and her dachshund Rusty.

Reflecting on her many happy years, Kathleen has also revealed the secret to living a long life: “Drink Guinness and don’t marry!”

To help make Kathleen’s birthday one to remember, the team threw her a special party complete with a delicious birthday cake specially made by the home’s talented Head Chef, and not to forget – plenty of Guinness!

Commenting on her big day, Kathleen said: “I had a wonderful day – it was fantastic having all my friends and relatives here for my party and to help me celebrate!”

Dorothy Pye, Home Manager at Sandfields, said: “Here at Sandfields, we love to throw a party for special milestones – and Kathleen’s birthday certainly called for a celebration!

“It was wonderful to see Kathleen surrounded by all her loved ones to mark such an incredible milestone. The team worked tirelessly to make sure her day was one to remember, and we would like to thank everyone who came along to raise a glass of Guinness to Kathleen!”

Sandfields is a state-of-the-art care home which provides full-time residential, nursing, dementia and short-term respite care. The care home incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities and includes its own cinema, hair salon and café.