Four centenarians at The Manor House celebrate birthdays

Four centenarians at North Walsham care home celebrating their 100th birthdays together at The Manor House

Four centenarians at The Manor House have marked an extraordinary milestone after they reached the age of 100 within a short space of time.

At The Manor House Care Home, staff recently celebrated the birthdays of Joan Bedford, Kathleen Bultitude, Joyce Newstead and Noel Buck. To mark the occasion, each resident received a congratulatory card from His Majesty The King. Families, fellow residents and staff also joined the celebrations.

Together, the four centenarians represent more than 400 years of life experience. As a result, their stories offer a rare insight into both local and national history.

Joyce Newstead, one of the four centenarians, was recently featured in the Norfolk News. Shortly afterwards, she proudly held up the article while celebrating at the home.

Life stories of the four centenarians

Joan Bedford grew up in London and enjoys spending time watching birds and wildlife in The Manor House gardens. In particular, she likes sitting by the windows or outdoors, where she can observe the changing seasons.

Joan Bedford, one of four centenarians at North Walsham care home, holding her 100th birthday card from His Majesty The King

Kathleen Bultitude, who grew up in Norwich, remains deeply devoted to her family. As well as welcoming visits from her daughter, she regularly spends time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. For Kathleen, family continues to play a central role in her life.

Kathleen Bultitude celebrating her 100th birthday at a North Walsham care home with a card from His Majesty The King

Joyce Newstead grew up in Salhouse, Wroxham, and attended Wroxham School. At the home, staff and residents know her for her sociable nature. She enjoys taking part in activities and, equally, values the frequent visits from friends. Joyce moved into The Manor House at the age of 98 and quickly settled in, becoming a well-loved member of the community.

Joyce Newstead, 100, holding her birthday cake during celebrations at The Manor House care home in North Walsham.

Noel Buck, who grew up in Thorpe, joined the Royal Navy at just 17. Over the next five years, he travelled the world and served as a wireless operator during the Second World War. Even now, he clearly recalls his time in the Far East and surrounding countries.

Noel Buck, a centenarian at North Walsham care home, holding his 100th birthday card from His Majesty The King

Advice from a century of living

When asked what advice the four centenarians at The Manor House would give to others, each resident shared reflections shaped by long and varied lives.

Joyce said:
“Treat people how you want to be treated – and just get on with it.” In her view, life feels easier when people remain kind, fair and focused on the present.

Kathleen said:
“Just keep doing what you’re doing.” For her, there is no single secret to a long life. Instead, she believes staying positive and taking each day as it comes makes all the difference.

Joan said:
“Just have fun.” Her advice highlights the importance of enjoying small moments and not taking life too seriously.

Meanwhile, Noel said:
“Age is just a number.” He explained that he has never worried about the passing years and prefers to focus on living well.

A proud moment for The Manor House

Home Manager Paula Pawsey described the celebrations as a proud moment for everyone involved.

“To have four centenarians at The Manor House all celebrating their 100th birthdays, and each receiving a card from His Majesty The King, is incredibly special,” she said. “Above all, their stories, humour and life experience bring warmth to our home and inspire residents and staff every day.”

Care and community at The Manor House, North Walsham

The Manor House is a residential care home set within 18 acres of gardens and woodland on the edge of North Walsham. As a result, residents enjoy both peaceful surroundings and a strong sense of community.

The home spans two floors and offers elegant en-suite bedrooms, many with garden views and French doors opening onto patio areas. Importantly, residents are encouraged to personalise their rooms with treasured belongings.

Outside, landscaped gardens provide space for relaxing, socialising and entertaining. Inside, a range of communal areas offers quiet corners as well as welcoming spaces to spend time with others.

The Manor House forms part of Healthcare Homes, which delivers care across the South and East of England. Today, the organisation employs more than 4,000 caring professionals across 48 care homes, nine homecare branches, live-in care services and specialist services. Above all, Healthcare Homes remains committed to supporting residents with compassion, dignity and respect.

Luke Smout

Marketing Executive