Woman who is celebrating 103rd birthday today shares her secret

Rose Wilson was born on May 26 1921 and met and married Jack Howard and had twin daughters June and Rosemary.

From them she’s now blessed with five grandchildren, five great grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren.

Rose in her youth (Image: Rose in her youth)

Talking to the Star about her life she said: “I works at kennels when I was younger and then my husband was stationed in Plymouth for the war, so I went down there to be with him and worked in the food office giving rations.

“I loved the job and it was very rewarding, plus it helped me look after my daughters when he was away.”

Rose and Jack on their wedding day (Image: Rose and Jack on their wedding day)

Speaking of her mum, who lived most of her life in Churchtown in Southport but is now a resident of Brown Edge Care Home in Thatto Heath, her daughter June said: “She’s marvellous, to be 103 and still be with it so to speak and to be how involved she is with family is lovely.

Rose holding her daughters on their baptism day (Image: Rose holding her daughters on their baptism day)

“She loves seeing the little children and she really is amazing and lived independently until she was 98.

“People can’t believe it when I say I’m going to see my mum, I’m very lucky to still have her.”

Rose with her daughter June (Image: Rose with her daughter June)

Her family were with her during her interview and described Rose as ‘inspirational’ and described her life including holiday highlights flying on the Concorde and staying at the Waldorf Astoria in New York before returning on the Queen Elizabeth II cruise ship and many camping holidays with husband Jack, who she celebrated 52 years married before his death.

Rose now (Image: Rose now)

When asked what her secret is to a long and happy life she said, “Hard work” before later adding “family is very important”.

Rose will celebrate her big day with a party at the care home, which should involve a performance of Samba Reggae Drummers Batala, of which her granddaughter is a member, alongside balloons and cake.

Rose with Brown Edge Care Home staff (Image: Rose with Brown Edge Care Home staff)