Mary Greenaway recently celebrated her 100th birthday at OSJCT Stirlings in Wantage, Oxfordshire.

Mary was born on a farm in Longcot.  Mary’s parents raised and bred pigs on their farm, and growing up she helped them look after the livestock.

Mary spent most of her career at the telephone exchange in Swindon, and then in Wantage.  Here she met her husband, postman Donald, who was nicknamed ‘Dixie’ after Dixie Dean the footballer.

Mary then worked as a Kitchen Assistant at a local secondary school, King Alfred’s.

Mary enjoys spending time with her son, David, granddaughter Lauren, and two great grandchildren, Wilfred and Barnaby.

Baking and embroidery have always been a passion of Mary’s. She also enjoys gardening and her favourite flowers are dahlias.

Mary says that turning 100 is “no different, it’s like any other day”, and the secret to living a healthy, long life is working hard!  She added: "Eat good food, stay happy, drink milkshakes and plenty of water, and help other people." 

The team at Stirlings hosted a tea party for Mary on her special occasion, with entertainment by her favourite singer, Kev Read.