Many thanks to Beryl for letting us know about Nora’s 100th birthday. What changes Nora must have seen on the Island in the last 100 years. We hope you’ll all join us in wishing her a very happy 100th birthday on Friday. Ed
Long time Ventnor resident Nora (a/k/a Nellie and Queenie) – minute in stature and, with an enormous character – will celebrate her 100th birthday on Friday 16th October.
Nora visited the Isle of Wight 45 years ago and resided permanently in Ventnor after a long and colourful career in London working as a “clippie” on London buses, TTT, the three T’s, telephone telex and typist during the war, head housekeeper at prestigious clubs and hotels and as an hostess assisting famous personalitites. She even worked the tote at probably every racetrack in England in her spare time!
After moving to Ventnor, she worked at St. Catherine’s convent and at Leslie’s Garage, supported the local bookies! (however I think she bankrupted the local Ladbrookes).
Nora was a world traveller and made friends of all ages wherever she went. Well into her nineties she would be seen all over Ventnor and other towns with her beloved dog whilst shopping for and visiting the “oldies” in the various homes around town and Knights Court.
Nora now resides at Firbank Residential Home in Shanklin and manages to keep the staff and residents amused, enjoys visitors and especially seeing her dog Tyke.
Nora will celebrate her official birthday on Friday, with the Queen’s greetings and a party with entertainment at Firbank.
On Saturday 17th October, Nora will be again celebrating, lunching with a few friends and her dog Tyke at the Winter Gardens.
No doubt many will pop in to wish her Happy 100th Birthday.
