101-year-old surprised by '˜fanfare' at Shoreham home

Ruth Gates was visited at Shaw healthcare’s Elmcroft care home, in St Giles Close, by family and friends, and a celebration was organised by staff there.

The centenarian was given presents and a cake to mark the occasion, with Adur District Council chairman Calson Albury and Shaw chairman Alun Thomas among the special guests.

Monica Donald, manager of Elmcroft, said: “Ruth is a lovely lady who provides a positive attitude to the home, so we felt that it was necessary to mark this milestone with plenty of food and fun.

“Despite her age, she continues to get out and about, socialising with other residents and staff, many of whom have come to see her as one of their closest friends.”

Ruth was born in Cambridge, where she developed an early love for poetry and singing, something that she still holds to this day. She worked in an administrative role during World War Two before moving into a job as a typist after the war.

After being involved in an accident that killed her husband, Peter, Ruth was told by doctors she would not be able to walk again. However, she defied the odds and continued to lead a full and active life, relocating to Hove before moving into Elmcroft three months ago.

Asked how she has kept feeling so young, she said she takes things as they come and ‘enjoys life’.

Ruth said: “I didn’t expect such a fanfare for my birthday – it was great fun. The nurses put up balloons and bunting and made sure that we were all having the best time.

“The flowers were lovely, but I think the best part for everyone was having a delicious piece of cake.”

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