Eileen celebrates her 100th birthday at Maitland House

Dorothy Cowell, who prefers to be called Eileen, celebrated her 100th birthday at Maitland House with a visit from Elvis and an afternoon tea with her family.

Eileen has three children, four grandchildren and five great grandchildren. She worked at a secretary for all of her working live and retired at the age of 60. She was married to her husband Bertie for 69 years before he sadly passed away in January 2020.

Eileen has lived at Maitland House since October 2022. She thoroughly enjoys arts and crafts, especially tapestry and is well known for providing any visitor to the home with a knitted mouse to remember their visit. She also enjoys all the activities and entertainment provided at the home.

She has also made tapestry for the Sailship charity supporting training for people living with a learning disability with work and life skills. They also support therapeutic pathways for improved mental health and well-being for the wider community - people of all ages and offer dementia friendly spaces within our grounds.

Eileen spent the morning of her birthday at the home opening the large bundle of cards and presents, including a special care from King Charles and Queen Camilla. There was also a special visit from Elvis and a cake that she shared with the other residents and some of her family. She was then whisked away by her daughters who took her out for a special afternoon tea.

Ann Evans, manager at Maitland House led the celebrations: “We all love Eileen to bits at Maitland House. She is a wonderful, creative lady who brings so much love to our home. She always joins in with our fun and entertainment and of course her passion for knitting and tapestry is incredible. We all wish her a very happy birthday!”