Accrington woman celebrates 100th birthday at Pendlebrook Care Home

Elsie Andrews, a resident of Pendlebrook Care Home in Oswaldtwistle, turned 100 years old on Monday, February 19.

Surrounded by family and friends, Elsie celebrated her milestone birthday with a party filled with music and memories.

Activity co-ordinator, Claire Rothwell, said: "Elsie has had an amazing weekend of celebrations for her 100th birthday.

"She is a very fit and active 100-year-old lady, still enjoying outings in the minibus and doing chair-based exercises.

"She said that she didn't want a fuss, but has thoroughly enjoyed all the attention."

The celebrations continued the following day with a delightful afternoon tea party shared with her fellow residents at Pendlebrook.

To mark her momentous occasion, the Mayor and Mayoress of Hyndburn also paid a special visit and local singer Kyle Harrison entertained the guests with his songs.

Born in Chorley in 1924 as the youngest of four children, Elsie's life has amounted to hard work, dedication, and a love for family.

At the young age of 14, she left school and began working in the laundry industry, contributing to her family's well-being.

Elsie met her husband at Washington Hall, Chorley when World War II broke out.

Together, they built a fulfilling life with their two daughters, Hilary and Susan.

Elsie's family tree further blossomed with six grandsons, Nicholas, Mark, Daniel, Simon, Paul and Thomas.

She also has five great-grandchildren - Holly, Emily, Amelia, William and Ava.

Her husband's job took them on a journey across northern England, with Accrington eventually becoming their place of retirement.

Throughout her life, Elsie immersed herself in music and still enjoys a weekly visit to Oswaldtwistle Mills with her daughters for a shopping trip and a hot chocolate.

She received a card from King Charles and Queen Camilla, a testament to her remarkable journey and a cherished memento of her 100th year.