Connaught Court resident celebrates 100th birthday

A resident at Connaught Court, in York, has celebrated her 100th birthday.

Constance Ireland enjoyed a celebration with fellow residents and staff at the Home, along with a wonderful cake, flowers, gifts, cards and a special message from the Queen.

In the days leading up to her birthday, Constance enjoyed a get together and special birthday lunch with four generations of her family. On her birthday, she enjoyed a trip to ‘The Ivy’ for lunch with her daughter Kathryn. She was treated to champagne at the restaurant, and congratulations from strangers as she wheeled through York on a sunny day.

She said:

It must be the music that keeps me going! I’ve got to keep up with my family, and keep going!

Constance was born in September 1921 in Luton. She was the only child of George, a painter and decorator, and Edith, a nursemaid and later, a school dinner lady.

At 14 years old, Constance left school to become an apprentice in ladies fashion, working in a family run department store in Luton. She worked in the industry until she was in her 60’s. Constance met her husband Tony when she was called up into the Auxiliary Territorial Service during WW2. They settled in Hull and had two children, before moving to Plymouth in 1972. Constance worked successfully in local boutique fashion stores, putting to use her experience and knowledge.

In June 2017, Constance sadly lost Tony, just before their 69th wedding anniversary. She moved back to Yorkshire to be closer to her family and moved to Connaught Court in October 2017. She is one of the eight centenarians living at the Home.

Music has always been a very big part of life’s pleasures for Constance. As a child she started singing, and it is also how she met her husband, during WW2. Constance continued singing throughout her life, which she feels has been good for her overall health and fitness. This includes participating in large choirs, madrigal groups, solo and festival works.

Constance and Tony, along with close friends, formed the Parkland Quartet performing many concerts across North and East Yorkshire and undertaking some BBC radio broadcasts. She continues to enjoy classical and big band music, as well as going to the theatre, concerts and to the coast.

Constance is well travelled, enjoying a round the world trip with Tony in 1991, as well as cruises, and many wonderful British holidays.

Fran Tagg, Activities Coordinator at Connaught Court, said:

Constance is a well-loved and sociable lady at Connaught Court, taking part in our music and singing activities, which she always enjoys, and the odd sherry. It was an honour to celebrate her 100th birthday at our Home.

Constance has two children, Kathryn and Roger, Sarah, her grandchildren, Emma and Charlotte, and two great grandchildren, Scarlett and Beatrix, who keep her entertained.