A GOLDEN celebration was held last month to mark the 50th anniversary of a sheltered accommodation scheme.
And to cut the cake were two centenarians.
Residents of Elizabeth Court in Wargrave gathered together for the milestone event.
Set up in 1969 by the Wargrave Housing Association, it was initially funded by grants and an early form of crowdfunding.
It provides housing for residents of Wargrave of retirement age and only takes in residents who are capable of independent living with the support of their family and friends.
On Saturday, June 22, the association’s management committee organised an open day for people with a connection with Wargrave to come and see the homes. This was followed by a birthday party for residents, their next of kin, members of the local council, medical practice and the church.
Entertainment was provided by a harpist and a cake was cut by the home’s oldest and longest serving residents, Vera Bird (100) and Irene Haines (101-and-a-half).
The charity is run local volunteers and employs a house manager who is responsible for the wellbeing of tenants and managing the 48 flats on the site. A recent refurbishment project has provided a modern entrance, and a shared lounge.
The local surgery is part of the complex which means that villagers and residents see each other often and doctors are on hand when required.