Leeds woman celebrates 102nd birthday surrounded by family and friends
A much-loved resident at Anchor’s Halcyon Court care home in Leeds has celebrated her 102nd birthday with family, friends, and afternoon tea.
Evelyn Royle, who was born Evelyn Ellis on the 13 July 1924, marked the milestone with celebrations that included a family gathering, attended by her three children, nine grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren, before a special afternoon tea and birthday cake at Halcyon Court.
Born in Leeds, Evelyn attended West Leeds Girls School from the age of five to 16, although her education was briefly interrupted during the Second World War when she was evacuated to Tadcaster for six months at the age of 15.
She began her working life aged 16 at The Yorkshire Penny Bank in Bramley, Leeds, before later working in the offices of a steelworks in Stanningley, which made munitions and heavy machinery.
Evelyn met the love of her life, Ken Royle, when she was 26, and the couple were happily married for 43 years. Together they had three children and lived in Upper Armley.
After raising her family, Evelyn worked at Schofields department store in Leeds for 12 years before retiring at 60.
A keen traveller, Evelyn has visited America, Canada, and even Cambodia at the age of 84. She has also been a lifelong cricket fan, visiting Headingley Cricket Ground on many occasions.
Her daughter, Margaret, said her mother has “always been a very honest, kind and compassionate lady” who would never do anything to hurt anyone.
Andrea Gibson, Home Manager at Halcyon Court, added: “Evelyn has lived an incredible life full of wonderful experiences, and it has been a pleasure to celebrate her 102nd birthday with her family and friends.
"She is a much-loved member of our community, and everyone at Halcyon Court was delighted to mark this very special milestone with her.”