A Hertfordshire woman who worked during the Second World War and has spent much of her life in the local area has celebrated her remarkable 110th birthday surrounded by family, friends and fellow residents.
Violet, a resident at Hatfield Nursing Home in Hertfordshire, marked the milestone with a celebration at the home, where she has lived for eight years.
Born on 17 October 1916, Violet grew up in Winchmore Hill, North London.
During the Second World War, she worked in wartime censorship, checking correspondence for sensitive information, and later worked in London during the Blitz.
Following the war, Violet and her husband settled in Potters Bar, where they raised their two children, Rosemarie and Peter.
Her husband worked in the printing industry, later taking a night shift role on Fleet Street, while Violet devoted much of her time to family life.
Her son, Peter, fondly remembers the Sunday lunches his mother would prepare when he and his sister were growing up.
“Mum would make Sunday lunches from scratch every week when we were growing up and would give me and Rosemarie the rice pudding to taste-test every time.”
The family later moved to Little Heath, near Potters Bar, where Violet continued to enjoy life surrounded by her family.
She also has two sisters, now aged 101 and 97.
On October 17, Violet celebrated her 110th birthday with family, friends, fellow residents and the team at Hatfield Nursing Home.
The home was decorated with balloons marking her 110 years, alongside flowers, cards and gifts.
The celebrations included a birthday cake and a personalised birthday song, with messages from family, residents, visitors and colleagues displayed for the occasion.
Among Violet's birthday cards was a special message from King Charles III and Queen Camilla, recognising her milestone birthday.
Mary Anestine, clinical lead at Hatfield Nursing Home, said: “Violet is a lovely lady who enjoys visits from her family and spending time chatting with the team.
“She particularly enjoys a good cup of coffee
“Reaching 110 is such a special milestone, and we're so pleased to have celebrated it with Violet and her family.
“It's lovely to see everyone come together to mark such an important birthday.”
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