Sprightly Popley pensioner celebrates 100 years with a card from The Queen (From Andover Advertiser)

Sprightly Popley pensioner celebrates 100 years with a card from The Queen

12:30pm Thursday 21st March 2013 in Basingstoke By Emily Roberts, Chief Reporter

A “SPRIGHTLY” pensioner celebrated her 100th birthday with a party and cake.

Jessie Pleasants was presented with a brooch on her milestone day by staff at Marnel Lodge, where she lives.

She was joined by her 98-year-old sister Daisy Beech, who also lives at the care home, in Carter Drive, Popley, Basingstoke, and her two nephews.

Jessie was born in Cambridge where she spent her childhood.

She met her husband Owen in the 1930s and the couple were married for more than 70 years.

They moved with Owen’s work before settling in Clacton where the pair enjoyed gardening together.

Jessie also enjoyed painting and spent much of her spare time creating pieces of artwork.

After her husband died, Jessie moved to Basingstoke to be closer to her nephews, Roger and Chris Beech.

On March 15, they joined her and other Marnel Lodge residents to celebrate her big day.

Ann Hadley, activities co-ordinator at the home, described Jessie as “sprightly” and added: “She sees the funny side of things. She likes doing exercise and was a great painter in her time so she always enjoys the craft activities.”

Jessie was sent a card from The Queen in recognition of reaching a century. She enjoyed a sing-along on her special day and a party buffet.