ONE of Bedale’s oldest residents has celebrated her 100th birthday – with a celebratory lunch for family and close friends at the Lodge Motel, Leeming Bar.
Farmer's daughter Gwen Kennedy, who was born in Catterick Village and is the last surviving sibling of seven, has been a resident at The Millings Care Home, Bedale, for the past two years.
She met husband Tom in 1937, who was an officer in the RAF and at the time based at Catterick Aerodrome.
They moved around a lot, having 23 homes in 23 years including a spell in France before returning to live in Catterick Village after Tom’s retirement before eventually moving to Richmond.
Gwen has three children, Peter who lives in Buckinghamshire, Brian in America - who both attended her birthday - and Celia in Australia. She also has eight grandchildren and ten great grandchildren.
As well as being a keen gardener, Gwen has visited her son and daughter in America and Australia many times.
She was presented with a large bouquet of flowers from the Chairman of Hambleton District Council, Bob Baker and Councillor John Noone, who represents Bedale.
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