Burnham-On-Sea’s oldest resident has celebrated her 110th birthday this week.
Staff and residents marked the very special day for resident Margaret Reed at Priory Court Care and Nursing home in Burnham’s Oxford Street.
Margaret is officially listed as the 17th oldest person in Britain and the oldest Irish person residing in the UK.
“110 years old is a truly extraordinary milestone to reach and all of us at Priory Court wish her very many congratulations,” Home Manager Angela Madden told Burnham-On-Sea.com.
“Margaret has lived with us at Priory Court for five years and is very much part of the family here. She is a remarkable lady, very independent and active.”
When asked for her secret for living to such a great age and looking amazing at 110 years old, Margaret said: “No drinking alcohol, plenty of fresh air, keeping busy and my religious beliefs.”
The current Coronavirus lockdown situation did not stop Margaret sharing her birthday with her family, who spoke to her via video calls and phone calls throughout the day, as pictured below.
Staff at the Burnham care home threw a tea party to mark Margaret’s amazing milestone.
Margaret arrived at her party to find the residents and staff clapping and warmly cheering her, where they celebrated with plenty of tea and cake.
Born on 20th April 1910 in Ireland, Margaret was one of nine children. During World War II she was part of the Royal Air Force at Farnborough, where she served in a secret establishment. After marrying, she moved to Cornwall and had one child named David.
She and her husband had a farm and she used to grow primroses to box up and send to London on the train for the Flower Markets. She has lived at Priory Court since 2015.
Burnham and Highbridge Mayor Cllr Andy Brewer said: “It’s always a pleasure to meet Margaret and amazing to see how healthy and active she keeps herself.”
“I’m disappointed that I’m unable to pass on birthday wishes in person but I wish her many congratulations and a very Happy Birthday.”
