A wartime wren has celebrated turning 100 years old in a care home in Hemel Hempstead.

Family and friends congratulated Norma Blacker at Water Mill Care Home, on Rose Lane.

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Norma's son Cedric travelled from Spain, while her daughter Dianne flew in from Americ, for the event.

She also received a card from His Majesty King Charles III and the Queen Consort Camilla.

Herts Advertiser: Norma's family travelled from miles around to witness the occasion.Norma's family travelled from miles around to witness the occasion. (Image: Springup PR)

Handmade cards and a cake were delivered by primary school children from Abbot’s Hill School.

Team members at Water Mill Care Home - where she has lived for four years - treated Norma to three days of celebrations to cater for her family and friends.

Norma Blacker said: "I had the most wonderful day, everyone worked so hard to make it special for me.

Herts Advertiser: Three days of celebrations took place.Three days of celebrations took place. (Image: Springup PR)

"You should see my bedroom, it’s covered with flowers, cards and balloons – fabulous!"

Asked about the secret to her long and happy life, Norma replied: "I eat well and sleep well and join in with all the activities at the home.

"I’ve always enjoyed the company of others and I think it’s important not to isolate yourself as you get older.

Herts Advertiser: Norma received a card from the King and Queen Consort.Norma received a card from the King and Queen Consort. (Image: Springup PR / Canva)

"My husband and I used to host lots of parties in our home when we were younger and I don’t intend to stop socialising now!

"You need to get out and enjoy life!”

Norma was born in Rushden, Northamptonshire, and worked as a wren for the Royal Navy during the Second World War.

Herts Advertiser: Norma received cards from a local primary school.Norma received cards from a local primary school. (Image: Springup PR / Canva)

She was initially stationed near Liverpool and then in Windsor.

Norma added: "It was an interesting job and I was proud to contribute to the war effort.

"Sometimes the horse races would be on at Windsor and people would travel to them in their taxis and cars, in all their finery and big hats.

"And we would boo them in their fancy carriages, as they were off to the races while we were busy working!”

Herts Advertiser: Norma says that the secret to a long and happy life is to sleep well, eat well and join in with activities.Norma says that the secret to a long and happy life is to sleep well, eat well and join in with activities. (Image: Springup PR / Canva)

Water Mill House’s manager, Victoria Forsythe, commented: "Norma is an inspiration to us all, her zest for life is amazing.

"Her wide circle of family and friends visit regularly and we love getting to know them - they’re all part of the home’s family.

“Norma’s very active and visits our Bistro every day, which is the social hub of the home, and plays Scrabble with the other residents.

                                                                                                                                

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"She loves playing bingo, indoor French boules and watching the entertainers we have in each week.

"Norma also takes a real pride in her appearance and loves to go to our salon each week to have her hair done.

"She’s an absolute gem and it was a privilege to be part of her 100th birthday celebrations.”