A 'TRULY remarkable' woman says healthy eating and being happy is the secret to a long life as she celebrates turning 105.

Doris Raistrick, a resident at Latimer Court, was joined by staff, family and friends as she received a card from King Charles III and Queen Camilla for her landmark birthday.

To mark the occasion, a champagne reception was held at the home, including a special birthday cake, made by the home's chef Jonathan, for Mrs Raistrick, residents and guests.

 

 

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She spent her younger years living through the war before meeting Roy, her husband-to-be.

Mrs Raistrick managed a grocery store and her husband managed a cinema before they decided to settle down and start their family, at which point she left work to be a housewife.

The couple went on to enjoy 56 years of marriage.

Mrs Raistrick, who is described as a "friendly, happy and sociable lady", moved into sheltered accommodation and subsequently to Latimer Court in 2020.

Worcester News: Doris Raistrick spent the day with her family

The care home is part of Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care providers, and provides residential care, nursing care and dementia care for 80 residents, offering everything from respite care to long term stays.

Speaking on her birthday, Mrs Raistrick said: "I'm so happy and excited to turn 105, I can't quite believe it and the things I've lived to see.

"My secret to a long life is to always be happy and eat healthy."

The celebrations were attended by her daughter, Wendy, granddaughters Samantha and Amanda, and great-granddaughter Sarah, who hosted for the afternoon for lots of guests.

Wendy said: "Doris is and has been a fantastic mother and friend to so many over the past 105 years, and it's wonderful to be with her on this very special day to say just how proud she makes us feel."

Donna Tustin, general manager at Latimer Court, said: "We're delighted to be celebrating a truly remarkable woman as she reaches this amazing milestone.

"Doris is such a popular resident who always has an interesting tale to tell, and we look forward to hearing many more as she enjoys her next century."