Betty is a true Lutonian – she was born, raised, married and lived in the town all her life. “I was born in Luton High Town and grew up in Round Green,” continued Betty. “I attended St. Matthew’s Primary School before moving up to a senior school on the Hitchin Road. I enjoyed my school years, especially the English classes – I just loved reading and learning new words.” When she left school, Betty became an Administrator working in both Luton and London. “I really didn’t enjoy my role, but I somehow tolerated it for 46 years,” added Betty. In 1963, Betty married her Husband, Robert. “We got married in Luton – of course,” continued Betty, and the happy couple became proud parents to four children. “I’m now a Grandmother and a Great Grandmother – I have seven Grandchildren and six Great Grandchildren who are all absolutely wonderful.” Even though Betty is a Lutonian through and through, she is definitely not a fan of The Hatters. “I really do not like football – at all,” said Betty. “I played Hockey when I was younger, but now I much prefer to watch the horse racing at Ascot or Goodwood.”
Betty believes that her secret to a long and happy life is keeping active, eating well, travelling and having lots of family time and fun. “I have been very lucky and visited many places of over the years,” continued Betty. “In fact, if I could give my younger self some advice, I’d say travel more – as much as you can. “I’ve been to many, many places throughout the United Kingdom – including the Scottish Isles which are amazing – around 800 islands including The Orkneys, Shetlands, Inner and Outer Hebrides, Arron and Bute – not that I’ve been to all 800 of course. I have also been to France, The Netherlands, Belgium, Ireland; but my favourite trips of all have to be the cruises I went on up and down The Rhine River in Germany. The cities and towns along The Rhine, coupled with the spectacular scenery, make it really quite magical.”
“Knowing how much Betty loves her food – especially our Chef Jim’s Fish and Chip suppers and omelettes, we couldn’t let such a milestone birthday go by without something delicious for Betty to try,” said Emma Lawrance, the Registered Manager at Little Bramingham Farm. “A special birthday afternoon tea party for Betty and her family was arranged at our very own Susie’s Tea Room which is located in our pretty gardens. “My birthday tea was scrumptious,” added Betty. “I really am a Gourmand – I’ve got a hearty appetite for good food and really enjoy each meal – and my birthday cake was absolutely out of this world.”
“We are all so glad Betty had a wonderful 95th birthday,” continued Karen Charity, the care home’s Activities Coordinator. “She has a great sense of humour and loves joining in with all our meaningful activities. She’s the life and soul of a party and keeps everyone laughing with her cheeky habit of calling us all ‘Brenda’ for a giggle.”
“Betty is also full of surprises,” added Emma. “We were chatting in one of our Reminiscing sessions the other day and were talking about things we’d done in the past and that things that may surprise others to know. Betty’s revelation was amazing – she actually met The late Queen Elizabeth II – who was Friends of the Elderly’s Royal Patron for many years – she’s chatted to the late Prince Philip and has visited Number 10 Downing Street – what a lady.”
“I had the most wonderful 95th birthday – it was so, so special. I was recently asked if I am happy living at Little Bramingham Farm and my answer is simple – yes, I am – 100% happy – I love it here,” concluded Betty.
Find out more about Little Bramingham Farm care home by calling 01582 582 433 or emailing [email protected].