Banbury Red Cross Veteran Marks 101st Birthday

A Banbury resident credits her long life to her love of vegetables, being active and most importantly maintaining a sense of fun and laughter.

Edwina Fran Stokes, known as Judy, celebrated her 101st birthday surrounded by friends, family and staff at Featherton House care home in Banbury.

Judy was born in Pembrokeshire, on 8 April 1925. After losing her father at a young age, she moved with her mother to Manchester before the family later settled in Fareham, Hampshire.

At just 16, Judy began volunteering with the British Red Cross, working at Gosport War Memorial Hospital in a care support role. By the age of 19, she had become a full-time volunteer aid detachment member and worked alongside pioneering plastic surgeon Sir Harold Gillies, supporting the care of servicemen injured during the Second World War.

She remained committed to volunteering, dedicating 65 years to the British Red Cross.

Her roles included teaching first aid in schools, supporting blood donor sessions, assisting at Farnborough Air Show and volunteering at the Red Cross Museum in Winchester.

Her service was recognised with the award of the Red Cross Badge of Honour.

Hilda Sanyika, registered manager at Featherton House said: “Judy has lived an incredible life and has given so much to others through her work and volunteering.

“She is always full of warmth and humour, and it is a privilege for everyone here to be part of her story.

“We were delighted to celebrate her 101st birthday with her and her family.”