Basingstoke lady celebrates reaching milestone age of 102

Lilian White, who lives at Ashcombe House in Worting Road, was joined by staff, friends and other residents as she reached the amazing age.

The homes chef Tracey Dyer made a special birthday cake which was enjoyed by all.

The birthday girl said her secret to a long life is to 'just get on with it'.

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When questioned how she manages to still look so young Lilian said she 'has good genes'.

Lilian, during the war years was in the Women’s Royal Air Force serving as an instrument engineer.

She has done many voluntary jobs through her life and used to love gardening.

The 102-year-old grew up in Hursley in Winchester before moving to Oakley in Basingstoke.

Children from Kings Furlong Infant School made Lilian a huge birthday card, designed, made and signed by the children which brought a tear to Lilian’s eye.

The afternoon continued with a visit from Wings of Freedom, a bird of prey rescue centre.

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Founder of the centre, Colin, introduced residents to a variety of birds of prey including, Norman the tawny owl, Rocky the barn owl and Kevin the kestrel.

Lilian held Kevin the kestrel and was amazed as she never thought this would be something she would ever be doing, let alone for her 102nd birthday.

Louise Lambert, general manager of the home, said: “We’re delighted to be celebrating a truly remarkable lady as Lilian reaches this amazing milestone.

“Lilian is such a wonderful lady with so much knowledge and personality I feel truly blessed to be able to celebrate this day with her.”

Ashcombe House provides residential and nursing care for 31 residents from respite care to long term stays.