100 and ‘a bit special’ – happy birthday Gladys!

How to celebrate 100 years in style

Mix together a red carpet, a drummer and piper, bunting, the mayor, a television crew, shanties and a vintage car. Slowly stir in weeks of preparation behind the scenes at the Waterworks which were kept hush-hush. Shake vigorously and stir carefully and add in children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews and then add the queen of the day, Gladys, and what do you have? A cocktail of excitement and fun. Then finally add in a chilled G and T and all is amazing. As the lady herself said when asked: “What do you make of all this. I think some people might think you are a bit special?” – “Well yes, I am!”

Liz Brooks is married to Gladys’ son Colin and writes on behalf of the family:

“What a fabulous day we had celebrating one hundred years of Gladys’ life. Family and friends travelled from far and wide to enjoy the party her son Colin and daughter Joanne held for her. It was lovely to hear her reminisce about her early life: seeing a Zeppelin and dodging bombs in the war; hop-picking in Kent and picking potatoes with the Bevan Boys; raising her family with her beloved late husband Jack; all the times she went dancing (up to her eighties!) and latterly all the holidays she’s been on, the next in Gran Canaria on Sunday. The family have all made more great memories to take away from today’s events: not everyone starts their party off arriving in a 1915 sports car! She finished off the day with a brandy nightcap at midnight. It was truly a wonderful day for a very special lady.”

Here also are a few words about the special day from Rachel Parker, Gladys’s grand-daughter. “Today has been truly spectacular for my Nan! From the incredible vintage car, the bagpipes, drummer, ITV, the mayor and of course Dave at the Waterworks. None of this could have happened without Dave. My nan loves this pub and will remember this day for many years to come. This was a 100th birthday to remember! Thank you to everyone who came along to celebrate.”

This is a poem written by Adam Parker and Grace Parker, Gladys’s great grandchildren, for the hundredth birthday:

David Roder and his team will remember this day as one to cherish.

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Image Credits: Kt Bruce , Rachel Parker .