101: A good reason to celebrate in style (From Witney Gazette)

101: A good reason to celebrate in style

3:14pm Monday 13th August 2007 in Witney By David Horne

RETIRED dressmaker Violet Daniel had a real surprise for her 101st birthday - a cake decorated in the shape of an old Singer sewing machine.

It brought back fond memories for the resident of Spencer Court retirement home, Woodstock, who spent most of her life in Harrow, London, and was a former court dressmaker.

She was surrounded by family to celebrate her birthday, including four great-grandchildren.

Anne Morrison, the home's care leader, said: "Her family always want to be with her on her birthday, it's something special when you reach that age.

"Though she's now hard of hearing, she has a lovely personality, and for 101, she's very well indeed."

Mrs Daniel came to live in Woodstock for a short time with her son, before moving into Spencer Court.

She is pictured with her carers, Kemo Samateh and Ruth Turton.