Deputy Mayor Joins 100th Birthday Celebrations

A local care home resident celebrated her 100^th birthday in style with friends, family and the Deputy Mayor of Hailsham on Monday [3 April].

Kathleen Wilkinson of Marshview Care Home in Marshfoot Lane marked her birthday with a gathering at which relatives, well-wishers and guests of honour including the Deputy Mayor, Councillor Amanda O’Rawe, gathered to honour her and celebrate the special occasion.

The event culminated in afternoon tea as birthday greetings were shared once again from Councillor O’Rawe and members of Mrs Wilkinson’s family.

Born in Lewisham in April 1917, Mrs Wilkinson moved to Rushlake Green when she was a teenager and lived there until her husband Milton died in 1982. She then moved to Hailsham to be near her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, moving into Marshview Care Home in February of last year.

Samantha Murphy, executive manager at Marshview Care Home said: “Despite reaching 100 years of age, Kathleen does not let her age get the better of her.  She is an amazing lady, enjoys a good quality of life and remains popular with fellow residents.”

“My staff and I wish her a very happy birthday and I’d also like to personally thank the Deputy Mayor Councillor Amanda O’Rawe for taking the time to attend the celebrations today.”

Councillor O’Rawe, delighted to have been invited to the celebrations wished Mrs Wilkinson good health for the future. She said: “It’s wonderful to hear of someone remaining so active at such an age and it’s an honour to celebrate with Kathleen and other guests on her 100^th birthday.”

“She is a lovely lady and a pleasure to be around. Kathleen certainly does not look her age and I hope she enjoys many more birthday parties to come.”

Councillor O’Rawe also commended care home staff for their outstanding commitment to their residents. “Marshview is a very high quality place of residence for elderly people and I rather get the feeling that everyone here is happy which is good news all round!”