Meet the beloved Nan who threw her own pre wake

Joan Jones invited her loved ones to celebrate her 80th birthday which was also her pre wake.

The beloved Nan decided to organise the unconventional occasion, also known as a living funeral, as a way of celebrating her life with family and friends.

The pre wake was held at Prescot Manor Bowling Club, where a DJ, buffet, and a bar was set up.

Joan explained the idea behind the occasion.

She said: "Every time I went to a funeral, I thought it’s always a nice turnout, and I think that person that’s died would love to meet all these people.

"When it was Covid, I went to my sister-in-law’s funeral, and we couldn’t go inside so we all had a picnic outside in the Church yard, and I thought 'that’s what I’m going to do when I’m 80; I’m going to have a pre wake with all my friends and family.'"

Joan wanted everyone to come together and have "a good laugh" (Image: Catrin Jones)

Joan also used the event to raise money for Willowbrook, a hospice close to her heart.

The 80-year-old added: "Three friends of mine have died in there and they’ve been well-looked after; I stayed with my best friend until she died, and they were so lovely with us.

"They weren’t crying or upset; they were all lively and I thought if anything happened to me and I'd need to go anywhere, I’d ask the hospice if I could go there."

A post box was set up for donations to be collected (Image: Catrin Jones)

Joan also detailed on the mixed response she received from close friends and relatives, with some concerned for the former district nurse's health.

Despite initial uncertainty about throwing the uncommon bash, Joan was pleased with how it turned out.

She said: "I’m so pleased I did it because I’ve not seen all this family and friends for years; the kids have grown up and it’s going too quick. It’s lovely – I love it. 

"At first, I thought it was a bit weird - one of my sons said he was going to put me in a coffin, and I’d have to shake hands with people coming in, and then the other one said he was going to put a wreath around my neck.

"I thought I’ll do it my way and we’ll have a good laugh. It took some people time to realise I wasn’t terminally ill; they did ring up and ask.

"I think most people would agree that when they go to a funeral, with all the people around, they wish the person was around to enjoy it and you’re frightened of laughing and joking when you’re at the wake, so this way, you can have a good laugh."

Joan stated how she is in good health and is determined to receive a telegram from the King, Prince William, rather than King Charles III.