Basingstoke resident Jessie Etherton-Baker celebrates 100th birthday

Jessie Etherton-Baker, who lives at St Thomas Care Home, was joined by staff, relatives, friends and other residents as she received a telegram from the King.

She also received more than 100 birthday cards from the community and fellow residents.

The home celebrated with a party and guests enjoyed a special birthday cake made by the home’s chef Darren Sherwin.

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Jessie received more than 100 birthday cards from the community and fellow residents (Image: St Thomas Care Home) Over the course of her life, Jessie served in the land army, worked on a farm and delivered milk to schools, before eventually coming to St Thomas Care Home.

Jenny Rafemoyo, general manager of Barchester St Thomas Care Home, said: "We’re delighted to be celebrating a truly remarkable woman as she reaches this amazing milestone.

"With the help of the mayor, local community businesses and residents, St Thomas residents and their families, as well as fellow Barchester homes, our activities team worked hard in secret to receive over 100 birthday cards to celebrate this incredible birthday and give Jessie an incredible surprise."

Blowing out her birthday candles after an impassioned birthday song from her son and the St Thomas staff and residents, the birthday girl said jokingly: "I wish for some peace and quiet."

St Thomas Care Home is run by Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care providers, which is committed to delivering personalised care across its care homes and hospitals.

St Thomas provides dementia care for 67 residents, from respite care to long-term stays.