A RESIDENT at a care home in Basingstoke has celebrated a milestone birthday.

Ellen ‘Nellie’ Barton, who lives in Barchester Healthcare-run St Thomas Care Home, in St Thomas Close, was joined by friends and relatives for her 102nd birthday on June 24.

A specially-made cake was made by the home’s chef Nar Pun, just for the party.

Nellie was born and raised in Stepney, East London, and worked as a seamstress. This carried over into her later life as she is still a snappy dresser.

Daughter Jean said: “Nellie is and has been a fantastic mother, sister, auntie, grandmother and friend to so many over the past 102 years, and it’s wonderful to be with her on this very special day to say just how proud she makes us feel.”

Helena Hawkins, general manager of Barchester St Thomas, added: “We’re delighted to be celebrating a truly remarkable woman as she reaches this amazing milestone.

“Nellie is such a popular resident who always has an interesting tale to tell, and we look forward to hearing many more.”

The secret to a long life is kindness to others, as well as gin, according to Nellie.

St Thomas is holding an Open Day on July 13 between 11am and 4pm where Helena will be giving tours of the facility. St Thomas will also be holding their annual fete between 1pm and 4pm on the same day.