‘Sherry is the secret!’ Bury centenarian shares tip for long life

A Bury St Edmunds care home resident celebrating an impressive milestone has shared her secret to a long and happy life.

The team at Care UK’s Glastonbury Court, on Glastonbury Road, pulled out all the stops to honour Gladys Cook’s 102nd birthday with a special afternoon tea.

She enjoyed the celebration surrounded by close family members and friends from the home, including her stepdaughter Sylvia and niece Mandy – and even gave some words of wisdom.

When asked for her advice to living a long and rewarding life, Gladys simply said: “Sherry is the secret – a glass never hurt anyone!

“Always take each day as it comes and enjoy what is thrown at you.”

Born in Edinburgh, Gladys was an only child and spent her early years in Scotland before embarking on a career with Scottish Widows. When the company opened a new branch in Cambridge, Gladys made the move south to help establish it and eventually settled in Bury St Edmunds.

Gladys built a life filled with treasured memories, including travelling across Europe with a close friend and seeing many members of the royal family during various visits and appearances.

She married her late husband in 1971 and has maintained a close relationship with her stepdaughter over the years.

Known for her love of the outdoors, Gladys has always enjoyed countryside walks and spending time surrounded by nature. Today, she still enjoys relaxing in the fresh air and taking in the peaceful gardens at the home.

Ana Mihai, Home Manager at Glastonbury Court, said: “It was wonderful to celebrate Gladys’s 102nd birthday with her.

“She has lived through many fascinating moments in history and always has lovely stories to share about her travels and the many experiences she has enjoyed.

“She has a fantastic sense of humour and her advice about sherry certainly made the team smile! We were delighted to make her birthday such a special occasion.”

Glastonbury Court is a modern care home providing full-time residential, nursing and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. There is plenty of space – both indoors and out – for relaxation and recreation, with facilities including a cinema room, hair and beauty salon and pub.