“Everything in moderation” is the secret to living a long life, according to Stratford-upon-Avon centenarian

 

A resident at a care home in Stratford-upon-Avon gave valuable life advice as she toasted a special milestone.  

Joyce Boland celebrated her 100^th birthday in style at Care UK’s Ambleside, on Evesham Road, and attributed her impressive longevity to “not smoking” and said the secret to long life is “not drinking and everything in moderation” – she said with a glass of sherry in her hand.

Born in Liverpool on 19^th November 1924, Joyce grew up with her parents, brother and two sisters. Aged 17 she joined the army, and Joyce was responsible for driving top army generals. The highlight of her time in the forces was driving Franklin D. Roosevelt, President of the USA. 

Aged 19, Joyce married her husband Oliver, who was the first pilot of Glider No.92, carrying No.2 Platoon of the Coup-de-Main force to Benouville Bridge, over the Caen Canal. He was just 22 when he landed the second glider next to Pegasus Bridge, in Normandy, which led to the bridge over the River Orne being captured intact, contributing to the success of future operations.

After the war, Joyce went on to be a stay-at-home mum to four daughters and lived in Liverpool.

On the big day, the team at Ambleside hosted a special party for Joyce and her family and friends, complete with a birthday cake baked by Head Chef Carl Fox. Chief Petty Officer Matt Francis, Petty Officer Steve Blake, and children from the TS Gurkha Stratford-upon-Avon Sea Cadets also paid a visit to wish Joyce a happy birthday.

Commenting on the day, she said: “I enjoyed the Sea Cadets visit a lot – it reminded me of when I was in the military, the comradeship and the feeling of being part of a team.”

Sharing her advice for the younger generation, Joyce said: “Be kind, think of others before yourself and help people whenever you can.”

Susan Kelly, Home Manager at Ambleside, said: “It was an honour to celebrate Joyce’s birthday with her friends and family. She is a beloved resident at Ambleside, and we all had a wonderful time celebrating this tremendous milestone.

“Everything we do centres around supporting residents to live happy and fulfilling lives, which is why we are always eager to mark special occasions. Joyce’s 100^th birthday was no exception, and it was a delight to hear her advice for living a long and happy life. Let’s all raise a glass to Joyce.”