Former Wren honoured with medal on 100th birthday

A resident at a care home in Sutton Coldfield has received a medal for her service in the second world war – on the day she celebrated her 100th birthday.

Barbara Preece, who lives at Care UK’s Bishops Manor on Jockey Road, served in the Women’s Royal Naval Service from 1944 to 1946 but was never presented with the honour awarded for her efforts.

So, the care home team marked her new centenarian status in style with balloons, cake…and a very special surprise.

They arranged for Rob Govier MBE from the Royal Navy engagement office to attend and formally present Barbara with her medal and certificate.

The celebrations continued with an afternoon tea for Barbara and her family, specially prepared by the home’s head chef.

Barbara said: “I thought the cake was the surprise, then they turned up with a medal. I had a wonderful birthday.”

Born in Birmingham, Barbara followed in her father’s footsteps and worked in the offices of Dunlop. In 1944, she joined as a Wren and worked as an armourer for four years before returning to Dunlop.

She often reminisces about her time in the service with fellow residents and the team at Bishops Manor.

“They were generous, but it was hard work,” she said.

Barbara met her future husband Benjamin Preece, who served in the navy, and the couple went on to enjoy a long and happy marriage. Although they did not have children, Barbara remains close to and speaks regularly with her two nieces.

In her spare time, Barbara regularly attended dances with colleagues and friends. At Bishops Manor, she enjoys live entertainment and singing along to nostalgic tunes. She also takes part in arts and crafts, recently making fat balls for birds, and enjoys socialising during group activities.

When asked for her secret to a long and rewarding life, Barbara said: “Be happy, be strong and go with the flow.”

Jody Sedgwick, Home Manager at Bishops Manor, said: “Barbara is a kind and independent woman with a brilliant sense of humour.

“When we discovered she never received the medal for her service, we knew we had to make it happen. What better way to do it than by surprising her on her 100th birthday! Seeing the smile on her face as she was awarded the medal and certificate was priceless.

“Hearing Barbara reflect on her time as a Wren while celebrating her milestone birthday surrounded by loved ones was truly wonderful. Happy birthday, Barbara!”

Bishops Manor has a dedicated team offering residential, dementia and nursing care, as well as short-term respite care. Designed to enable residents to lead active and rewarding lives, while also promoting independence, the home incorporates plenty of space for leisure activities and hobbies, including its very own café, hair and beauty salon and pub. The building has been designed to facilitate the creation of close-knit communities and encourage social interaction among the residents.