Banbury woman celebrates 100th birthday with special garden party hosted by local care home

The Ridings Care Home, Calder Close, Banbury held the celebrations for Vere Mair Robson yesterday afternoon, Sunday July 12.

Vera Mair Robson a retired head secretary of the Harwich School, Harwich, Essex, originally from LLanelli South Wales has been a resident at The Ridings since autumn 2016.

Mair, as she likes to be known, has one daughter called Beverley and two grandchildren, Alexandra and Rebecca, and one great-grandson Milo, aged 2.

Beverley Young, Mair’s daughter was able to attend in accordance with The Ridings garden visit protocol.

Mair, her daughter, residents and staff enjoyed the afternoon with music, singing and games followed by a traditional champagne afternoon tea in the glorious sunshine in The Ridings community garden. Music provided by Bob Dainty from Banbury FM.

Her daughter, Beverley Young, said: “My Mum is a strong, loving independent woman whom loves her family. Always active, loves the outdoors, crafting and keeping busy. Adored by her family and all that know her."

Due to the current social distancing guidelines, family and friends sent their birthday wishes via home video clips which were projected onto an outside cinema screen.

Mair received a very special 100th birthday card from the Queen that will be treasured by Mair and her family.

Ann Jones, team leader at The Ridings Home, said: “We have had a truly lovely day celebrating Mair’s 100th birthday, and all our staff have been involved in preparing and decorating our home to help make the day extra special.

"Mair is a much loved resident and is very active in all our daily social activities at The Ridings.

"We are thrilled to have been able to hold a garden party in honour of Mair to mark an incredible birthday for an incredible lady, this has been an emotional day for everyone”.

Bob Dainty with Banbury FM said: “It has been an absolute pleasure to have been invited to play music for such a special occasion.

"This is my first visit back to The Ridings since February before lockdown. All the staff have been doing a wonderful job during such a difficult time, when residents haven’t been able to see their families.

"It was a smashing afternoon, everyone worked so hard to make it happen for Mair and her daughter to celebrate this momentous occasion together.”

All visitors followed social distancing guidelines whilst at Miar`s birthday event.

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