Bedford’s Francis Celebrates Turning 100 With Lockdown Birthday Party

Bedford Resident Francis Boydell didn’t let the lockdown stop her from celebrating her 100th birthday in style, as she enjoyed a cake and fizz party.

Francis marked her milestone birthday on Saturday 13th March at the Home with a special afternoon tea celebration.

Residents and Colleagues got together to toast Francis – who also received well-wishes from Her Majesty, The Queen – with her favourite tipple, Prosecco.

Home Manager Kelly Buckley said that it was wonderful to celebrate Francis’ big birthday in style.

Kelly said: “Francis is a wonderful lady and we made sure she was spoilt rotten.

“We were able to welcome her niece Judith for a socially-distanced visit the day before, and put on a special tea party for her and her many friends here at Bedford.

“Francis told us she thought the party was absolutely fantastic and she’d really enjoyed her Prosecco.”

Born in Golborne, Francis was one of five siblings and worked at Harbens Silk Mill for most of her career.

During the Second World War, Francis left the mill temporarily to work on ammunitions at the Royal Ordnance Factory Standish in Wigan as part of the war effort.

In 1949, she married her husband Ken and moved to Lowton where they lived together until he died in 1988 aged 65.

Kelly said: “Francis and Ken had a wonderful life together – they enjoyed ballroom dancing and going abroad on holiday.

“When we asked her what her passion in life was, she told us it was being with family – so it was wonderful we were able to facilitate a safe visit from Judith.

“It was our privilege to spend her special birthday with her.”