A remarkable milestone was reached at Castle Farm Care Home, in South Gosforth, as resident, Irene Gibson, celebrated her 106th birthday surrounded by family, friends and staff.
Born on 4 September 1919 at 21 Fuller Road in Byker, Irene grew up in a very different Newcastle. The street where she was born no longer exists, having been demolished to make way for the Byker Wall development.
During the Second World War, she served in the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF) at Marston Moor in Yorkshire. Before enlisting, she worked at the NE Schools Furnishing Company on Grainger Street, a shop fondly remembered by her son, George, as the go-to place for school books, pencils and supplies.
In 1946, Irene married her husband, Tom, and the couple spent 45 happy years together before his passing in 1991. They had one son, George, two grandchildren, Ruth and Chris, and one great-grandchild, Sam. After her marriage, Irene chose to focus on family life and did not return to work, a decision reflective of the era’s values and expectations.
Irene moved into Castle Farm Care Home in 2019 and is known for her energy, independence and love of social activities. She regularly takes part in the home’s weekly programme led by Helen Angel, activities coordinator, which includes Tai Chi, singing, dancing and regular trips out for coffee.
Helen, said: “Irene is an absolute joy and an unbelievable character who is full of spirit and zest for life. She gets involved in everything we offer, including seated dance on Mondays and Tai Chi on Thursdays. She is a real inspiration to everyone here.”
As part of her weekly routine, Irene takes part in Move and Groove – Young at Heart, a year-long programme funded by Sport England. The sessions use music and movement to encourage gentle physical activity and help stimulate childhood memories.
Irene Gibson, said: “I have lived here for six years now and I enjoy every moment. It feels like a proper home with friends all around. I love the dancing and the trips out for coffee and there is always something to look forward to.”
Castle Farm is part of Abbeyfield Northumbria, a not-for-profit care provider with residential homes in Alnwick, Gosforth and South Gosforth and two supported living homes in Bamburgh and Berwick. The homes operate on the founding principles of Richard Carr Gomm, who established the Abbeyfield Society in 1956 to combat loneliness and provide community-led housing for older people.
Peter Standfield, chief executive of Abbeyfield Northumbria, said: “A huge happy birthday to Irene from all of us at Abbeyfield. 106 years of birthdays is certainly something to celebrate.
“Our organisation is built around creating enriched, caring and positive environments for our residents. Milestones like Irene’s are not only special to her and her family but to all of us who work here. The energy, humour and resilience of residents like Irene, is exactly why we are so proud of our homes and the people in them.”
Earlier this summer, Abbeyfield Northumbria promoted Chris Major to Director of Care and Quality following two decades of service at Castle Farm. Lisa Bunting, who has worked at the home for ten years, has now stepped into the role of manager, ensuring continuity and deep local experience for residents.
The celebration was a testament to the dedication of the Abbeyfield Northumbria team in providing a welcoming and supportive home where residents like Irene can enjoy a full and active life well into their later years.