A REDDITCH resident who turned 109 years old this week is ‘feeling alright’ about her grand and impressive age.
Hilda Clulow, born in Selby Park, celebrated her 109th birthday on Wednesday (March 15) with her family and friends at Bowood Court & Mews Care Home in Redditch.
Alongside her friends, she was joined by directors of Adept Care Homes, owners of the family-run Bowood Court, who ensured she could celebrate her landmark birthday in style.
Hilda, who was born in the same year as actors Bette Davis and James Stewart, was clearly happy with her birthday party and when asked about how she felt about turning 109, she simply said: “I feel alright really!”
A former dressmaker, Hilda worked in a Balsall Heath factory from the age of 16 until she retired aged 60. She fondly remembers friends and neighbours bringing material for her to make them dresses in her backroom.
She also loved to holiday in Blackpool and Cornwall and her room at Bowood Court & Mews is decorated with pieces of Cornish artwork.
Hilda is a popular resident at Bowood Court & Mews where she has lived for two years.
Pauline Vernon, Bowood Court & Mews home manager, said: “Hilda has so much ‘get up and go’ and she’s always keen to get involved in our activities programme.
“I’m so pleased I could be there for her birthday celebrations. She’s always smiling and happy – which is maybe the secret to a long life.”
Dave Lock, Adept Care Homes managing director, added: “What a wonderful lady Hilda is. Reaching 109 is really quite something and we were so pleased to be able to celebrate and make an extra special fuss of her.”
