Hilda Tyrrell, who lives at Barnet-based care home, Meadowside, celebrated turning 100 with family and friends this week with a special party.
Born in Highgate, Hilda is the youngest of six children, though has out-lived her siblings at the incredible age of 100, having lost two of her brothers during the Second World War.
Hilda left school at 14 and worked at Express Dairies in their offices until she met and married her beau, Charles (known as Jock) at the age of 21. They married in 1939 and moved to Barnet when Jock was posted to Barnet Police Station, from where he served as an officer until his retirement.
Hilda and Jock had three children and were married for 44 years until he passed away in 1983.
Hilda’s fellow residents and carers at Meadowside enjoy listening to her stories, especially one which involves her brother, who worked for Marconi at the time when they were developing the concept of television. Hilda remembers looking at the radio in disbelief when her brother assured her that it wouldn’t be long before they would introduce pictures to go with the sound!
Hilda was an expert seamstress in her day and crafted most of her children’s clothes when they were young.
Commenting on Hilda’s special birthday, Rachel Sohorye, service manager at Meadowside Care Home, said:
Hilda is a joy to be around and enjoys sharing stories and having a joke or two. It was a real privilege to be part of her 100th birthday party and to celebrate this remarkable milestone.
Hilda’s daughter, Mary, added:
We enjoyed mum’s party and it was a real honour for her to receive a special card from the Queen. Mum loves living at Meadowside, particularly the company and kindness of the staff, who enjoy her sense of fun, which hasn’t diminished despite her age.