A care home resident – whose career included being a codebreaker in World War II – has celebrated her 105th birthday. Born on 21st October 1919, Dorothy Smith has had an amazing life including her time decoding German messages and sending them to Bletchley Park.
Her son Jeff, who helped to arrange her birthday celebrations, said: “My mother is and has been a fantastic mother, grandmother, wife and friend to so many over the past one-hundred and five years.
“It’s wonderful to be with her on this very special day to say just how proud she makes us feel.”
Dorothy is a resident at Hilton Park Care Home at Bottisham.
She was joined by staff, relatives, friends and other residents as she received her, now yearly birthday card from the King in recognition of her latest landmark birthday.
A party for Dorothy was held at the Bottisham Airfield Museum and guests enjoyed a special birthday cake made by the home’s chef, Anthony Hopkins.
Dorothy came to Hilton Park Care Home in 2018 where she is now enjoying a new chapter of her life.
She said: “I feel truly humbled to have such a lovely day. The secret to living to 105 years old is lots of love and laughter.
“A glass of sherry and dark chocolate also help’
Geanina Tinca, general manager of Hilton Park Care Home added: “We’re delighted to be celebrating a truly remarkable woman as she reaches this amazing milestone.
“Dorothy is such a popular resident who always has an interesting tale to tell, and we look forward to hearing many more as she continues her journey through her second century.”
Hilton Park Care Home is run by Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care providers. It provides residential care and nursing care for 88 residents from respite care to long term stays.
