BIRTHDAY celebrations were held in a Whitchurch care home as one of its residents prepared to turn 102.

Florence Harvey is a resident of Weston House Residential in Green End and she will celebrate her milestone on Wednesday, May 24.

However, celebrations with her family, care home staff and other residents took place a few days early so her two sons could be there with her.

Florence was self-employed as a breadmaker and lived most of her life in Whixall. 

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Manager Rikky Gray spoke about how pleased she was to see Florence reach 102.

She said: "It is amazing, we have never had anyone in our home reach 102. So we are all excited about it.

"We are really pleased for her and her family."

The Weston House residential manager said that the care home held an afternoon tea for Florence as part of her celebrations.

Rikky continued: "We had an afternoon tea for her and her family, other residents and staff.

"She had her two sons, Peter and Geoffrey and they were here along with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren to celebrate with us.

"It was very nice for her because she has not seen them for a very long time. It was very emotional for them."

Rikky mentioned that when Florence fell ill recently many had wondered if she would recover for the celebrations.

She said: "For her sons, it was incredibly special. A few weeks ago she was very ill and no-one thought she would make it.

"I think both her sons were still in shock because she looked so well both physically and mentally."

Rikky also spoke about how the other residents enjoyed the day and how Florence is well-liked by others, adding: "They watch out for her so much.

"When she is in the lounge with the other residents, they will look out for each other as family.

"They were surprised that Florence is going to make it to 102.

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"They will watch out for her and tell staff if she is cold and they love her to bits because she is such a lovely lady.

"She is always smiling and other residents will make sure they are sitting with her and talking with her.

"Everyone is so proud of her."