Former Red Cross Nurse Celebrates 103rd Birthday in Llanidloes

A Llanidloes woman who worked for the Red Cross during the Second World War has celebrated her 103rd birthday at a local care home.

Residents and staff at Maes y Wennol care home in Llanidloes joined Nance Griffiths for a party with balloons, bunting and cake.

Born in Kidwelly, Carmarthenshire in 1919, Mrs Griffiths grew up to be a nurse and worked for the Red Cross during the Second World War.

During the war, Nance went to a New Year’s Eve dance and met her future husband when she was 21. The couple had three children together, one boy and two girls, and she has 14 grandchildren.

In addition to the party, her family treated her to a day out to celebrate her milestone.

Sandra Holt, the manager at Maes y Wennol – which is operated by Shaw Healthcare – said: “Nance is such a great personality in our home, often challenging us to a game of dominoes or darts – her competitive streak is as strong as ever. If she isn’t doing that, she’s focused on her latest book or tuning into an audiobook. She’s always keeping active.

“Nance is a hugely popular resident at Maes y Wennol and we’re delighted to have put on such a lovely event for her.