‘Gin and tonic and a glass of merlot’ – 100-year-old Harrogate care home resident shares secret to long life

Your favourite tipple with dinner could be the key to reaching 100 years old, according to a Harrogate care home resident.

Doreen Mason, who lives at Care UK’s Harcourt Gardens on Harcourt Road, celebrated her newly minted centenarian status with balloons, banners and a delicious cake made by the home’s talented Head Chef.

She was thrilled to be surrounded by family and friends as they came together for her momentous day – and she even passed on some of her wisdom.

When asked for her secret to leading a long and rewarding life, Doreen said: “Healthy living, good Yorkshire air, the compulsory early-evening G&T and glass of merlot with dinner, of course!

“I’m so lucky to have reached 100 years!”

Doreen was born in Manchester, where she grew up before moving to Brighton when she was 23, marrying her husband, Alan. 

Together, the pair raised two sons, Stephen and David, with Doreen spending her time looking after her family. She was overjoyed when numbers grew with the arrival of three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

The couple moved to Huby, Harrogate in 1969, where Doreen has resided since. 

Over the years, Doreen has taken up many hobbies, including ladies' golf as well as being a talented knitter, seamstress and dress maker. She has continued this into the present day, becoming an avid member of the Knit and Natter group at the home. 

Lisa Addyman, Deputy Manager at Harcourt Gardens, said: “Doreen is a much-loved member of the Harcourt Gardens community, and it was wonderful to see her surrounded by family and friends as we celebrated her new centenarian status.

“We’re committed to helping residents live active and fulfilling lives, so we love to celebrate incredible milestones – and Doreen’s 100th birthday was certainly one of those!

“It was lovely to raise a glass of merlot together (of course!) on her special day and hear her advice for a long and happy life.”

Harcourt Gardens provides full-time residential, nursing and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. The home incorporates plenty of space for hobby and leisure activities and has its own cinema, pub and hair and beauty salon.