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Tunbridge Wells care home resident Stella Stanley celebrates her 101st birthday

A care home resident has celebrated her 101st birthday with a special birthday cake and plenty of flowers and presents.

Stella Stanley reached the incredible milestone on November 2 and enjoyed an afternoon of tea and delicious homemade cakes with fellow residents and carers at Fountains Lodge Bupa Care Home in Tunbridge Wells.

Stella Stanley celebrated her 101st birthday this month
Stella Stanley celebrated her 101st birthday this month

The 101-year-old said she was "overwhelmed" with the number of cards and gifts she received on her special day,

"It was lovely to know that so many people were thinking of me on my birthday," she said. "I'd like to thank everyone for their kind wishes and gifts. I especially loved the flowers and potted plants placed in my room.

"My friends and carers certainly made my 101st birthday one to remember.”

Born in November 1919, Stella grew up in Gerrards Cross, Buckinghamshire. She left school at 14 and worked at a local antique shop until deciding to study at Hammersmith Technology College, where she qualified to be a nursery nurse.

During the war, Stella recalls her family donating honey to neighbours and local charities. Her father won awards for his beekeeping and also set up a successful business, Bellingham and Stanley, which is still thriving today more than 100 years later.

"She is such a positive lady and a joy to be around..."

She believes that the honey she used to eat from the two beehives in her family's garden is the secret to having lived a long and healthy life, and she still enjoys a daily sweet treat even today.

"Every day is a blessing when you get to my age," she said.

Stella enjoys the peacefulness of the secluded landscaped gardens at the care home, where she can admire the commemorative willow tree which she was gifted on her 100th birthday.

Home manager Louise Eastwood said: "It was a pleasure to celebrate Stella's 101st birthday at Fountains Lodge. She is such a positive lady and a joy to be around, always reminding us to make the most of life. We're so glad to have been a part of Stella's special day."

Read more: All the latest news from Tunbridge Wells

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