Knutsford centenarian resident shares secret to longevity

There were plenty of smiles and slices of cake at a care home in Knutsford when one resident celebrated a milestone birthday.

Averell Oliver, a resident at Care UK’s Cranford Grange, on Hall Lane in Mobberley, marked her 101st birthday in style with a party at the home. 

The team members decorated the home with a special birthday display made up of balloons and banners. The centenarian also enjoyed a celebratory glass of wine and cake prepared by the home’s head chef, alongside her fellow residents, family and friends.

Averell was born in Flixton and, apart from her time at catering college in Edinburgh, has always called Cheshire home. She married her partner, Bobby, in 1953 and raised four children: Mary, Johnny, Sarah and Lulu.

Throughout her life, Averell has been known for her community spirit. She volunteered for the NSPCC, earning a certificate recognising her dedication, and worked for many years at Wilmslow’s Charity Christmas Card Shop. She also loved gardening and was an active member of Sutton Garden Club, visiting some of the country’s best-known estates including Highgrove, Tatton Park and Chatsworth House.

When asked about her secret to living a long and happy life, Averell said: “First and foremost, I reckon I am so well because of the wartime diet and having to walk everywhere.

“I keep myself active and busy – walking every day, keeping up with friends, reading the newspapers, playing bridge, taking part in the weekly quizzes at Cranford and keeping an eye on my stocks and shares going up and down!”

Zoe Smart, Home Manager at Cranford Grange, said: “Averell’s 101st birthday was a true celebration of her remarkable life. She was truly the celebrity here too, having appeared on TV twice in her 100th year, including on BBC Breakfast on Boxing Day and ITV’s Tonight programme about living well. We were also delighted to celebrate her 100th birthday here last year, making this another very special milestone for everyone in the home.

“We’re committed to helping residents live fulfilling lives, which is why we love to celebrate big milestones, and Averell’s 101st birthday was no exception. She is such a cherished member of the Cranford Grange community, and it was wonderful to see her surrounded by family and friends as we marked this special day.

“Her sense of humour and positive outlook have always been an inspiration to everyone here. Cheers to Averell!”

Cranford Grange provides residential, dementia and nursing care, as well as short-term respite care. Designed to enable residents to lead active and fulfilling lives, while also promoting independence, the home incorporates plenty of space for leisure activities and hobbies. The building includes its own cinema, pub and hair and beauty salon, and has been configured into a series of neighbourhoods to facilitate the creation of close-knit communities and encourage interaction among the residents.