Caroline Easter, 100, celebrates her birthday alongside staff at Kingsmead Care Home in Swindon
A resident at Kingsmead Care Home, Caroline Easter, celebrated her 100th birthday in heartwarming style, receiving 171 birthday cards from local schoolchildren. She also received her customary congratulatory messages from the King and Queen.
Staff said the cards were a highlight, and Caroline took her time reading each one.
Activities coordinator Cerys Brown said Caroline was initially unsure about making a fuss.
“I asked if we could make a big fuss, and she said ‘yes’, then requested a chocolate cake with 100 candles. When I asked if she had enough puff to blow them all out, she laughed and settled for just a single ‘100’ candle instead.”
The celebration involved staff, residents, and the local community.
Caroline was born in Swindon and grew up with four brothers and three sisters. She worked as a telegraphist at the Post Office and remembers day trips to Barry Island with her parents.
After marrying her late husband in 1945, Caroline had two children. She travelled around England in a caravan and lived in Devon before returning to Swindon while her husband served in the army.
Now one of Kingsmead’s longest-standing residents, Caroline moved into the home with her son, who has sadly since passed away. Her daughter remains closely involved and visits regularly.
Caroline continues to enjoy getting out into the local community. She was recently spotted visiting the local shop, post office, and coffee shop, where she remains popular with other customers.
Home Manager Jinu Thomas said:
“Caroline is a much-loved member of our Kingsmead family. We’re passionate about treating every resident as an individual and helping them feel connected and valued. Seeing Caroline surrounded by so much kindness from the local community, especially the children, was incredibly moving.”
Jinu Thomas, manager at Kingsmead Care Home
Kingsmead is one of the oldest care homes in Swindon. It is part of Healthcare Homes, which provides care across the South and East of England. The organisation employs more than 4,000 people across 48 care homes, nine homecare branches, live-in care services, and specialist services.
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