A care home resident described as ‘remarkable’ has received a card from King Charles III for her 100th birthday.
Vera Briggs lives at Pendle Brook Care Home and celebrated the milestone with her friends and family last Friday (October 21).
Born on Maden Street in Accrington in 1922 to Mary and Joseph Smith, Vera worked, fell in love, and raised a family in Lancashire.
The centenarian grew up in Church and moved to Oswaldtwistle when she married her late husband Earnshaw Briggs on March 21, 1942.
The couple lived a happy life together and had two sons Geoff and Graham along the way.
Vera was windowed in January 2001, when Earnshaw passed just 14 months shy of their diamond wedding anniversary.
During her life, Vera had numerous different jobs but her absolute favourite was as a shop manager at Beech Tree Overalls on Little Blackburn Road in Accrington.
She has also been a lifelong member of Ernest Street Baptist Chapel in Church and was delighted to receive flowers and cards from them on her special day.
Sharing the secret to a long and happy life, Vera said: “I kept busy and did my chores.”
She was never happier than when washing and drying the pots and pans and keeping her room spick and span.
To celebrate Vera's centenary, staff at the care home in Oswaldtwistle threw her a special party.
Vera, surrounded by loved ones, opened her cards and presents and enjoyed a birthday cake as she was toasted with champagne.
The evidently popular lady received birthday greetings from Norfolk, Lancaster, Hartlepool, and even Spain, Thailand and Australia.
She is also one of the first 100 year olds to receive a card from King Charles rather that the Queen.
Pendle Brook’s activity coordinator, Claire Rothwell says that Vera is a much-loved resident at the home.
“Vera is a real character,” she said. “We were thrilled to help Vera celebrate her 100th birthday, she is a very special lady and we all have a soft spot for her.
“Vera is a truly remarkable person who is dearly loved by her family and friends and all those who care for her.”
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