Melksham woman celebrates 100th birthday

A Melksham woman who moved to the town from Jamaica nearly 70 years ago has celebrated her 100th birthday. 

Anita Burke was born in Clarendon, Jamaica and was one of 20 children. She married her late husband, Herbert Allison and went on to have a large family with nine children and 37 grandchildren.

The couple moved to Melksham in 1957 and lived in several parts of the town including The City, Watsons Court and Hampshire Place, before settling in Pembroke Road, where Anita has happily lived for the past 48 years.

Anita worked throughout her life holding roles at Bowyers, Waldon, Harris and Avon. She remained active, working well into later life, before retiring in her 70s.

Among her grandchildren are two well-known sporting figures. Her grandson, Fitzroy Simpson, enjoyed a successful professional football career in England, playing for clubs including Portsmouth and Manchester City, and proudly represented Jamaica internationally as part of the Reggae Boyz.

Another grandson, Sam Allison, has made his mark in football as one of the UK’s leading referees, officiating in top-level matches and becoming an inspiring figure in the sport.

Anita’s grandaughter, Melissa, said, “A devoted church member, Anita has always valued faith and community. She was also an active member of the West Indian Community Centre in Trowbridge and remains deeply loved by family, friends and the wider community.

“Reaching her 100th birthday is a remarkable milestone and a celebration of a life defined by courage, hard work, faith and family.”