“A good glass of wine always” – Sutton Coldfield 105-year-old resident shares the secret to living a long life

A Sutton Coldfield resident has shared his secret to living a long life as he celebrated his 105^th birthday.

Bill Stockton, who lives at Care UK’s Bishops Manor on Jockey Road, celebrated this huge milestone with a birthday party arranged by the team.

To make the day special, Bishops Manor team members decorated the home with colourful balloons and banners, and surprised Bill with a cake thoughtfully prepared by the home chef.

Bill was also joined by his closest friends and family, including his wife of 70 years, Cynthia Stockton, who has been living at Bishops Manor with him since 2023.

When asked what his secret to living a long, fulfilling life was, Bill said: “My family kept me busy, my love for life kept me inspired, and a good glass of wine always helped! I’ve had a whole lot of luck, plenty of adventures, and, of course, my beloved wife Cynthia is my greatest source of strength and joy.

“I feel privileged to have reached this ripe old age with my wife by my side.”

Born on Monday 15^th November 1920, Bill is a proud Royal Air Force veteran, having served in World War II and travelled the world as a medic.

Shortly after the war, Bill met Cynthia, and the couple married in 1955, settling down in Sutton Coldfield, where they welcomed their son, Martin. Over the years, Bill enjoyed a variety of hobbies, such as music, fine dining, dancing, and travel – some of which he still enjoys today. 

Thomas Bampfield, Home Manager at Bishops Manor, said: “Here at Bishops Manor, we’re committed to ensuring residents live active, fulfilling lives while celebrating special milestones – and Bill’s birthday was no exception. 

“It was such a special day hearing his stories, especially his heartwarming secret to living a long life, while creating new memories surrounded by his loved ones.

“Since moving to the home, Bill and Cynthia have quickly become much-loved residents, so much so that they are called “mom and dad”! Bill’s playful humour, quick wit, and warm presence make him an absolute delight to be around. Cheers to Bill!”

Bishops Manor has a dedicated team offering a range of care options, including residential, dementia and nursing care. Designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence, the home incorporates plenty of space for leisure activities and hobbies, and the building has been designed to help facilitate the creation of close-knit communities and encourage social interaction among the residents. It even has its very own café, hair and beauty salon, and pub.