THERE was a day of celebrations yesterday at Kingsmead Care Home in Eastcott as three residents celebrated landmark birthdays.

Michael Coomer turned 70 and Sissy Melton enjoyed her 90th while Freda Comer turns 103 today.

Staff at the home put on a joint party for the trio where they all enjoyed a piece of specially made cake alongside family members.

At 103, Freda remains full of life and has her heart set on getting another telegram from the Queen.

She said: “I got a card from the Queen when I was 100 but she doesn’t send another until people turn 105 so I have another two years to wait.

“It is lovely to be able to celebrate here with friends and family. I have had a wonderful time.”

Born in Cricklade, the mother of two has lived in the Swindon area for much of her life, spending many years working on the family farm in Highworth.

She said: “When I turned 14 I moved to London to go into service because there were not many opportunities for girls back in those days.

“I worked as a maid for a number of years. I lived in Sussex for a few years with my husband.”

When the war broke out the family moved to Highworth, where she worked on the farm. While it was hard work, she says it provided the key to her long and enjoyable life.

“I worked with my brothers and sisters on the farm for many years and while it was tough we were always laughing and had a smile on our faces. We had to do all kinds of jobs in the field but the whole family had fun. That is the secret. To make sure you have fun and enjoy yourself.”

Before moving into Kingsmead, Freda lived in Upper Stratton and remained active, still going fishing at the age of 97.

It is the first time the home has had such a collection of landmark birthdays at the same time so the manager felt it was important to celebrate it.

Manager Nicky Poole said: “It is quite an occasion to turn 103 and with the other two birthdays we had to do something to mark the event.”