A woman in Crickhowell has celebrated her 101st birthday at a local care home.

Margaret Joan Sharp, who likes to be known as Joan, was joined by family, residents and staff at Greenhill Care Home for a party to celebrate the big occasion. 

Joan who was born in North Riding, Yorkshire, met her husband Ken in a walking group and married on VE day, 1945. They spent their honeymoon in Edinburgh but due to the chaos of VE day, luggage got lost and they had nothing.

They went on to have two children, six grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.

Joan lived for a short period in South Africa as well as Cork in Ireland. She had a desk job at the post office and spent many years doing volunteer work.

After Ken sadly passed away in 1991, Joan volunteered and worked in the Red Cross Shop in Crickhowell for more than 25 years. 

When asked what her secret to longevity is, Joan said keeping very active and busy. Joan spent much of her time with the church, gardening and arts and crafts along with her volunteer work.

Claire Williams, manager of the Shaw healthcare-operated home, said: “It was a pleasure to celebrate Joan’s birthday with residents and her close family. I’m so pleased we were able to be a part of her special day as she is like our family.”