The eldest member of Melksham 60 Plus Club, Gwen Farr, celebrated her 102nd birthday on 18th July. She says that her secret to a long life is to take every day as it comes.
Gwen, who has lived in Semington and Trowbridge, and has been attending the Melksham 60 Plus Club since the club began. Her daughter, Pat said, “Her memory is phenomenal. She still attends the club weekly, she loves going to meet up with people and have a chat, it keeps her active.”
Gwen was born in 1921 and was growing up throughout both world wars. Pat said, “She used to work making artillery shells that would be used by the navy. She’s worked in fish and chip shops when we were small and then was an auxiliary nurse. She retired aged 60 years old.”
She married Clarence Farr in Trinity Church, Trowbridge, and the couple were married for over 72 years. Clarence, who was born in Semington, died in March 2020. Remembering their wedding day, Gwen said, “When we got married it was such a hot day, all the confetti stuck to me!”
Reflecting on what she enjoys most about the Melksham 60 Plus Club, Pat said, “Over the years she has been on some nice trips and enjoyed the teas and Christmas lunches. She has just loved chatting with and meeting people. They usually get her to cut the cakes at events.”
Chairperson of the 60 Plus Club, Rosemary Nash said, “Gwen is a very valued member of the club and she is loved by us all. She is the oldest member of the club and I think she has been with the club from when it started. We all wish her a very happy birthday.”
Sharing the secret to Gwen’s long life, Pat said, “She’s got a good family and a good attitude to life.”
