Over a hundred cards for 100th birthday

A KIRKLEES great-grandmother has received over a hundred cards from across the UK and abroad wishing her a happy 100^th birthday.

Marion Binner, a resident at Aden View Care Home, Perseverance Street, Primrose Hill, Huddersfield, was inundated with 124 birthday cards from her hometown as well as further afield.

Following an appeal by the care home’s staff on social media, cards began arriving from Leicestershire, Kent, and even from Alabama, USA.

She also received a special card from the Queen. Residents and staff at Aden View’s sister home, Willowdene Care Home, in Hebburn, near Newcastle, also sent cards.

The centenarian received flowers and presents from her family, who made a window visit to see Marion on her special day, when the home held a party.

Drag queen Miss Fish, the alter ego of bank care assistant Ian Nugent, kept everyone entertained, while residents enjoyed a dance and party food.

Marion shared her specially made birthday cake, decorated with edible flowers and make-up, as well as a sign saying “Happy 100^th Birthday Marion”.

Born 16^th March 1921, Marion has lived in Primrose Hill her entire life, growing up with her brother and sister.

She worked for tennis ball manufacturer Slazenger before marrying twice and becoming a housewife.

She had four children with husband Stanley Gibson, who was in the Royal Air Force. They now have four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

They enjoyed dancing together and Marion always took great pride in her hair and nails, a habit she has continued to this day.

Lauren Shipman, activities coordinator at Aden View Care Home, said: “We wanted to make Marion’s 100^th birthday extra special by inviting as many people as possible to send her over hundred cards wishing her a happy birthday.

“We were delighted when they started flooding in. We reached a grand total of 124 at last count, not including the telegram from the Queen.

“The party, hosted by drag queen Miss Fish, was greatly enjoyed by all the residents and we all sang happy birthday before Marion blew out the candles on her specially made cake.

“It was a fantastic day and a worthy celebration for such a lovely lady.”