A PAIR of Worcester centenarians have celebrated their birthdays in style with family and friends at two City care homes.
Phyllis Cox celebrated her 102nd birthday on Sunday at Sanctuary Care’s Regent Residential Care Home, in St John’s, whilst Hilda Hines saw in her 106th birthday yesterday at Juniper House Residential Care Home, also in St John’s.
The pair admit the secrets to longevity are a good face cream and keeping busy.
Phyllis, from Somerset, grew up trying her hand at needle work and glove making, before meeting her husband-to-be Les at Wiltshire Carnival in the summer of 1934.
The devoted couple married in 1939 and soon had two children, Sheila and Geoffrey, who both live in Worcester.
Sheila said: “She has always been such a loving mum. She would do anything for anyone and has always had a wonderful sense of humour.
“We always loved spending time together as a family, especially on our summer holidays in Dorset and the Isle of Wight.”
Bridie Gray, activities leader at Regent Residential, said: “Phyllis is a really sociable, chatty lady who loves company. She still likes to get involved in the home’s activities and just adores her family.”
Hilda, born on Carden Street, Worcester, to parents Robert and Rachael Bemand, grew up with an ear for music and the arts, enjoying watching her father rehearse his popular music act the ‘Amazing Pigeons’, which toured all over the country.
It was love at first site when Hilda met husband-to-be Tim at a dance hall, with the couple tying the knot in 1935.
The dancing duo devoted much of their time to ballroom dancing, stepping out in venues as far afield as Blackpool and winning many trophies along the way.
Following the war, Hilda gave birth to the couple’s only child, Steve, and now has three great-grandsons whom she adores.
Tim sadly passed away in 1992 after more than 50 years of marriage, but Hilda still has a passion for dance, tuning into Strictly Come Dancing every Saturday night.
Hilda said: “I really don’t feel my age. I’ve never felt any different. I’ve used Nivea all my life and looked after myself.”
Alan Raymond, activities leader at Juniper House, said: “Hilda is simply marvellous. She still makes sure she looks her best, always doing her makeup – she is absolutely wonderful.”
