Local Woman Celebrates 102nd Birthday at West Sussex Care Home

Marjorie Rutter who worked as a GPO telephonist during the war celebrated her 102nd birthday at a local care home.

Marjorie was joined by residents and staff at Croft Meadow care home in West Sussex for a birthday celebration, which included entertainment and afternoon tea.

Born in Harlesden, North London, Marjorie trained as a telephonist in 1942 at Hampstead exchange. It was through her work during the war that she met her future husband, Harold, by communicating to the war office.

A member of the Royal Corps, Harold first met up with Marjorie when he was on leave from work. In 1942, the pair decided to marry at St Nicholas Church.

Marjorie then moved to Elstree, Hertfordshire with her new family where she brought up two children, Linda and Harold.

She retired at the age of 60 before moving to Milton Keynes to be near her sister and niece – eventually relocating to West Sussex in 2003 to be near her daughter.

Residents and staff at Croft Meadow organised a party for Marjorie, with entertainer, Kim Bonsor, visiting before an afternoon tea rounded off the celebrations.

An avid reader, she also loves gardening and singing. According to Marjorie, the key to long life is “clean living and a whisky now and then”.

Carmen Flueras, manager at Shaw Healthcare-operated care home Croft Meadow, said:
“Marjorie is a shining light in the home – she always puts a smile on the face of our staff. It was a delight to be able to put on this party for her.”