Golf enthusiast gives advice to younger generations as he turns 100

Residents at Albert Edward Prince of Wales Court, in Porthcawl, were thrilled to celebrate resident Ron’s 100^th birthday yesterday, marking a century of incredible achievements and cherished memories. When asked how it feels to be a centenarian, Ron said with a smile, “Oh, I don’t feel my age!” He also offered some wise words to younger generations:

Do a little bit more work… and always be kind!

Ron enjoyed a private family fathering, as well as a fun sing-along with fellow residents at the Home. He was over the moon when he received a birthday card from the King, which features both King Charles III and Queen Consort Camilla, and a golf-themed birthday cake made by the Home’s caterer.

A life of hard work and dedication

Born on 26th November 1924 in Clowne, Derbyshire, Ron Walker began his working life at 14, when he was drafted as a miner working underground at Oxcroft Colliery. Ron recalls:

At first, I looked after the ponies, but I worked hard and eventually became a manager.

His determination and dedication paved the way for a successful career in mining. He later moved to South Wales in 1960 to take on senior roles, including as General Manager at Wynham-Western Colliery, in Bridgend.

One of the highlights of Ron’s career came in 1978, when he had the honour of hosting HRH the Duchess of Gloucester during her visit to the colliery. Ron retired in 1984, aged 59, having gained a wealth of knowledge and experience.

He married his wife Yvonne in 1945, the year the Second World War finally came to an end. Together, they raised two daughters, Gillian and Angela. In his retirement, Ron devoted time to his love of golf, serving as captain and later president of Southerndown Golf Club, in Ogmore-by-Sea. Following the loss of his wife in 2003, Ron started going on golfing trips to Spain, where he played regularly with his brother Arthur on the Costa del Sol.

Having been a golf enthusiast for most of his life, Ron enjoyed a golf-themed birthday cake to celebrate his 100th birthday.

Ron now lives at Albert Edward Prince of Wales Court, where he delights in the warmth of his fellow residents and staff members. Nicola Osborne, one of the Home’s Activities Coordinators, says:

He loves a good sing-along or anything musical. However, Ron particularly enjoys and looks forward to the frequent visits from his wonderful family!

[Summary: Residents of Albert Edward Prince of Wales Court in Porthcawl recently celebrated Ron Walker’s 100th birthday with joy and music. Born in 1924 in Derbyshire, Ron’s career spanned from caring for ponies in the mines to hosting royalty at a colliery. In retirement, he embraced leadership roles at Southerndown Golf Club and enjoyed golfing trips to Spain. Now, he cherishes time with family and the camaraderie of fellow residents.]