Frances, who moved to the ExtraCare scheme with her late husband when it opened in 1990, was joined by her daughters and son-in-law, as well as most of her fellow residents, including her long-term partner Eddie. The Lord Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent, Cllr Terry Follows, and Lady Mayoress Mrs Jacqueline Pearson also attended the event, having been invited by Activity Co-ordinator Eileen Hargreaves.

Guests at the party enjoyed some entertainment from singer Ray Pickin, as well as food and drink, and Frances said she was enjoying herself.

"I'm having a good time," she said. "My birthday was yesterday, but I was out with the girls then so we're doing this tonight. There have been a few tears when I think back to where I started, but I'm enjoying myself tonight which is what matters."

Manager Carol Moreton said everyone at the scheme was happy to share in Frances' big day. "It's a really important day for us all, especially as Frances has been with us so long and was one of our original residents. Lots of people tonight have come in even though they're not meant to be working - we've even got one staff member who couldn't come so she sent her husband along!"

Eileen said she was thrilled to see Frances enjoying herself. "It's been a bit of hard work getting everything sorted for tonight, but all that matters is when you see people enjoying themselves," she said.

Picture: Lady Mayoress Mrs Jacqueline Pearson helps Frances cut her cake, along with the Lord Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent, Cllr Terry Follows.

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For further information, please contact:

Lucy Henson, PR officer
0789 105 3062
lucy.henson@extracare.org.uk