Beverley resident, 102, shares surprising secret to long life

A Beverley care home resident celebrating a special milestone has given her advice for leading a long and happy life.

Joyce Storr, who lives at Care UK’s Chapter House on Keldgate, marked her 102nd birthday surrounded by friends and family as everyone tucked into a cake prepared by the Joyce’s good friend. 

The big day started off with Joyce unwrapping gifts from her loved ones before celebrating with the care home team – and she even shared some words of wisdom.

When asked for her secret to a long and healthy life, Joyce replied: “Enjoy yourself with a glass of champagne!”

Born in North Yorkshire, Joyce’s early years were spent in Redcar before joining the army at the age of 17 in 1941 until the second world war ended four years later. 

Joyce spent the rest of her working years running her own fish and chip shop called The Gainsborough with her husband, Jack, whom she was married to for 35 years before he sadly passed away.

Joyce has led a very social life and still regularly catches up with lots of friends. In her spare time, when she isn’t chatting with familiar faces, she can often be found watching a good TV drama or playing Uno. 

Steph Addison, Home Manager at Chapter House, said: “Joyce’s 102nd birthday was a true celebration of her remarkable life. She is a very interesting lady who always has so many wonderful stories to share – she is much loved here.

“At Chapter House, we aim to ensure residents continue to lead fulfilling and exciting lives. Celebrating Joyce with our own special party and raising a glass of bubbly to her was a real pleasure. Cheers to Joyce!”

Chapter House offers full-time residential and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. The home incorporates plenty of space for hobby and leisure activities, while the layout of the building is configured into a series of individual suites, each having a dedicated lounge/dining room to facilitate the creation of close-knit communities.