IT WAS party time at Ravenstone Nursing Home in Droitwich on Monday (July 25) when resident Mary Martin celebrated her centenary birthday in style.
Mary lived and worked in Bromsgrove for 77 years after having moved to England from New Zealand. She was employed in a range of roles such as a domestic assistant at Bromsgrove General Hospital and the Bell Inn where she worked until she was in her 80s.
Mary has lived her life to the full.
On the secret of long life she said: “It is the fresh air in New Zealand, keeping smiling and never giving up.”
She also has many fond memories over the years, including some of her upbringing in New Zealand. She tells staff fondly of her journeys to and from school, riding from a farm for four miles everyday on the back of a pony.
Mary is also an avid football fan, supporting Manchester United and even owning her own football shirt.
The big day itself consisted of many mini celebrations, one big party on the night of her birthday, a special birthday cake and a constant stream of cards, presents and visits from her daughter Pauline, three granddaughters Mandy, Marie and Julie, six great grandchildren Charlotte, Ashley, Hayley, Rachel, Zoe and Emily and two great-great grandchildren.
