Happy 100th birthday Bill!

It was an honour for us to be part of Bill’s special day as he celebrated his 100th birthday.

His party was a real community effort, with members of his family, his friends at Orchard Grange and our own colleagues all helping to make the event memorable.

The festivities began on a high note, with Bridge Court resident, who is also called Bill, honouring his service in the Scots Guards by playing the bagpipes. Bill’s close friend and neighbour, Jimmy, opened the event with a heartfelt speech, reflecting on how Bill’s century of life shows resilience, strength, and joy.

Fellow tenant Joyce recited a poem she wrote specially for Bill, adding a personal and touching moment to the day.

Meanwhile, Independent Living Coordinator Ian presented a “This Is Your Life” book he had carefully compiled.

Filled with photos and cherished memories, the book chronicled Bill’s extraordinary journey, from his birth in a butcher’s shop in Preston to his marriage to Maureen, which lasted an incredible 71 years.

Bill is a proud father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, and his life’s adventures have taken him from serving in the Kashmir conflict, to living in Australia. Among his treasures, he fondly remembers his first car, an Alvis Coupe.

Tammy Bradley, Executive Director (Operations and Support), and fellow Independent Living Coordinator Mel, presented Bill with a beautiful hamper and flowers. The centrepiece of the celebration was his cake, decorated with black-and-white photographs and topped with a model Spitfire, capturing special moments from Bill’s life.

Reflecting on the day, Bill shared: “I had a good party. I have a lot of friends here at the scheme and it has been nice to celebrate this with them.

“But being 100, I don’t feel as good as I used to.”