Not many people can say they lived to see their 100th birthday.
But after living a very interesting life, Dorothy Pennells can add her name to the list.
She was born and raised in Earlsfield and worked as a legal secretary during World War 2, even acting as a court representative from time to time.
She took inspiration from her father who served in the Royal Air Force.
Dorothy was married for 64 years before her husband Charles sadly passed away in 2008.
A few years after that tragedy, she moved into the Sunrise of Purley care home which is where she celebrated the century in style.
She was treated to a special presentation entitled “What else happened in 1918" and the home's memory care co-ordinator, Tammy Symonds, said it was an honour to join Dorothy and her family for the day.
"She was delighted to receive a card from the queen which is now proudly on display in the community," Ms Symonds said.
"It was such a lovely occasion, and we had lots of fun eating cake and drinking bubbles.
"Dorothy’s family were so grateful and were blown away by everything we did – events like this are an important part of our mission to ensure our residents live happy, fulfilled lives.
"We look forward to celebrating many more birthdays with Dorothy.”
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