Scarbrough Court resident celebrates 109th birthday with a special visit

A resident at Scarbrough Court, in Cramlington, has celebrated his 109th birthday. Currently, he is the third oldest man in Britain.

Joe Dixon enjoyed a celebration with fellow residents and staff at the Home, along with gifts, a birthday cake, and 109 cards from the community. In the afternoon, Joe received a special visit from the local Fire Services as he served for over 50 years in Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service.

Joe was born in October 1913 in Walker, Newcastle, and worked in a butcher’s shop when he was nine years old, before becoming a firefighter in 1937. He worked his way up to become a sub-officer before volunteering alongside three of his firefighter colleagues in 1943 to assist with the war effort.

Resident Joe Dixon receives a visit from Paul Headley from Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service.

Joe began working in the Newcastle City Police, Fire and Rescue Service in 1937. He lived in one of the 27 flats in the married quarters with his wife Lydia for 27, where they raised two children, Robert and John.

Joe served in RAF Bomber Command during the Second World War, and returned to work as a firefighter when it ended. Before retiring in 1964, he served on the front line for 27 years in what was formerly the Newcastle and Gateshead Fire Service.

Joe said:

I have always felt very important in my job. The Fire and Rescue Service has always made me feel very important to them. One fond memory I have is on my 100th birthday; I had a visit from the chief fire officer and his crew to mark the celebration and they have visited me wherever I have lived on every birthday since.

Being at Scarbrough Court care home for my 109th birthday, the day could not have gone any better. I am so grateful for all the birthday wishes I received.

At the Home, Joe enjoys talking with his fellow residents, and participating in all social activities and therapy animal sessions. He is always happy to see his two children, five grandchildren, and four great grandchildren when they come to visit him.

Stacey Hunter, one of Scarbrough Court’s Activities Coordinators, said:

Joe is such a humble, kind hearted man. It is such a pleasure to have him living at Scarbrough Court as he is always entertaining everyone with his inspirational stories.

Resident Joe and Activities Coordinator Stacey greet a friendly dog at the Home.

[Summary: Joe Dixon, a resident at Scarbrough Court, in Cramlington, has celebrated his 109th birthday. Currently, he is the third oldest man in Britain. Joe received a special visit from the local Fire Services as he served for over 50 years in Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, before retiring in 1964.]