AN OAKLEY resident has recently celebrated her 103rd birthday.

On February 28, Hilda Ramsden celebrated her 103rd birthday with friends and family in Oak Lodge Nursing Home, in Oakley Hall.

The centenarian was joined by her family, who spent the day chatting and sharing memories to celebrate her grand milestone.

Hilda said: “I’m so glad everyone came to celebrate. The private dining room and family lounge were decorated beautifully, I felt so special.”

Staff say Hilda is a charismatic lady who enjoys being a part of the social activities, her friendly nature makes her a popular member of the care home community.

Born in Thurlstone, Yorkshire, she started her career in an umbrella factory when she was only 14-years-old.

In 1941, Hilda met Noman, whom she married in the December. The day after the wedding they moved to London to live with Norman’s family in West Ealing.

When expecting their first child, Norman insisted that Hilda moved back to Yorkshire to give birth so that she and their child were safer. In the north, she then went on to have two more children.

Now, Hilda enjoys spending time with her large family of children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who visit her regularly at Oak Lodge where she now calls home.