Twenty five family members travelled from Sheffield, to join friends and neighbours who gathered at Wellow Institute to celebrate the 100th birthday of Maree Crabtree, who retired to live in Wellow more than 30 years ago.
With her husband Jerry, Maree played a full part in the life of the community, and were very strong supporters of St. Swithins Church, Thorley, where Maree was responsible for the seasonal flower arrangements and summer tea parties.
Thanks shared
To thank everyone for their gifts and good wishes, and for the fine spread of sandwiches and cakes, Maree called the room to order, reminding everyone that calling for silence had been a necessary skill in her career as a primary school teacher.
She was presented with a card and primrose by Steve Cowley, Chair of Shalfleet Parish Council, in recognition of her years of service to the community.
A devoted gardener, Maree said she expected to see primroses blooming on her 101st and 102nd birthdays and hoped everyone would join her in those celebrations.
News shared by Jill, in her own words, Ed
