MORE celebrations took place in Corringham today (Tuesday, 7 May) as Thurrock resident Gwen Lewis enjoyed a third day of festivities to mark her hundredth birthday.

And the charismatic centenarian was thrilled when she learned one of her gifts is to be able to fulfil a lifelong ambition to fly in a helicopter!

Thurrock Nub News reported on the first day of celebrations at the O'Donaghue House sheltered housing complex on Thors Oak where Gwen lives, during which she was presented with a card vfrom King Charles and Queen Camila.

Today the fun continued when she attended a meeting of the Snowdon Club at the Springhouse Club in Corinhgam.

Gwen was a founder member and supporter of the Snowdon Club when it was launched 40 years ago to help local disabled and disadvantaged people - and she is still going strong as she attends its monthly meetings.

Alongside another member, May Banyard, who was celebrating her 90th birthday with members, she was the centre of attention as members sang them both 'happy birthday'.

And there were even more joyous moments when Snowdon Club chairman Eugene McCarthey made a short speech and presented Gwen with her ticket to ride in a helicopter taking off from Southend airport next month!

Members then enjoyed a buffet after raising their glasses in toast to the two ladies.

advertisement