Minnie marks a century

There have been celebrations going on in Snettisham village this week despite the arrival of another lockdown thanks to Coronavirus.

Minnie Baxter celebrated her 100th birthday on Saturday, November 7, and she received gifts galore in the run-up to her special day.

West Norfolk home care company Extra Hands has been helping Minnie for the last five years and presented her with a bouquet to help celebrate her century.

“I have had loads of things for my birthday - a cardigan, sweets, chocolates, cake and a lovely bunch of flowers from Extra Hands - and a balloon with 100 on it,” she said.

Born and raised in Norfolk, Minnie trained to be a nurse at St Andrews hospital in Northampton before returning to her home county with her husband Tony and later moving to Snettisham 30 years ago.

Widowed for five years, Minnie had a variety of hobbies and was very keen on knitting, but her failing eyesight means she has had to give it up in recent times. Up until her retirement, she looked after a nursing home.

Coming from a big family, with five brothers and sisters, Minnie said she has a collection of nephews and nieces along with their families and still enjoys being part of a big family.

The Heacham office of Extra Hands, which has been rated Outstanding by the Care Quality Commission, helps Minnie retain her independence.

“We were glad to be able to help celebrate Minnie’s 100th birthday with her. It has been a really difficult year and it was lovely to be able to mark such a special event for Minnie and her family,” said Director of Care Services Jo Tier.