A KNUTSFORD centenarian has celebrated her milestone birthday with friends and family at the nursing home where she lives in Manor Park South.

Ruth Phillips, 100, was treated to a ‘big party’ on Monday, June 14 where staff and residents at Sharston House Nursing Home joined with her relatives to celebrate.

Ruth was born in Great Sankey, Cheshire, but later moved to west Hartlepool where she attended school. She was raised by her father, who was a chemical engineer, and mother who was a housewife.

Her earliest childhood memory was of her family owning a car.

“That was an honour in those days,” said Ruth.

Ruth attended college where she trained to be a PE teacher but later went into physiotherapy, working at a hospital in Buxton.

She has one sister, who is currently living in America, and another who has died.

Ruth has lived in Knutsford for 20 years, initially in an Abbeyfield warden controlled apartment before moving to Sharston House, which is run by Kingsley Healthcare.

Louise Thompson, Sharston House carer, said: “It was while at the Abbeyfield apartment that Ruth became friends with Wyn who volunteered there; they are still very good friends and Wyn comes every other day to see Ruth at the home alongside Mary who comes the days Wyn doesn't - so Ruth has a visitor every day.“

“Wyn printed a lot of pictures of Ruth through the years to put around the venue, there will be balloons and banners and fresh flowers - and lots of champagne.

“We are all looking forward to a brilliant day, especially Ruth.”

At Ruth’s party she received three birthday cakes, one from staff and residents of Sharston and two brought by friends, including her personal favourite – lemon drizzle cake.

Around 20 friends attended the gathering.