Edith celebrates her 105th birthday

Yarmouth-born Edith England has celebrated her 105^th birthday at Thomas Tawell House on Magpie Road in Norwich.

Edith was born in Great Yarmouth on 2^nd January 1919. She was the second eldest of 5 children and had 1 sister and three brothers. She first worked with her mother looking after guests in their home, she then went into service and worked in a shop, completing some cleaning and shop work.

Edith was married to Claude for over 40 years, they had two daughters together. Edith now has 4 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and 8 great, great grandchildren.

Prior to moving into Thomas Tawell House, Edith lived on the 13^th floor of Norwich’s tallest residential building, Winchester Tower, on Vauxhall Street in Norwich. She lived there independently from 1966 when the tower was built, until she was 103, before making the move to the care home in December 2022.

Among the many cards and gifts received at the home was a card from the King and Queen with the message: “What a splendid achievement! We send you our congratulations and warmest best wishes for your one hundred and fifth birthday on 2^nd January 2024.” Edith is one of a small number of people who have received a card from King Charles III and the late Queen Elizabeth II.

Edith says her favourite activities at the home are the music events and spending time with the new friends she had made and having a natter over mealtimes. She says the staff are lovely. She celebrated her special day with a party at the home with family & friends with some live music.