A weekend of birthday celebrations has taken place for a 100-year-old man at a care home in Gateshead. Bob Tait hit the century mark on Saturday, July 4, and everyone around him made sure that it was a special few days for him.
Life at Marigold Court
Bob moved into the Marigold Court community with his late wife Kathy in April 2015, enjoying a range of activities, including painting, which he has a particular passion for. Serving in the Second World War, Bob can often be found socialising with his neighbours, and his family, including two daughters, a son, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Birthday Celebrations Begin
On Friday morning, school children who regularly join Bob and other residents for dominoes on Friday mornings came to celebrate with him, bringing cards and gifts. One gift highlighted events that happened in 1926, and they spent time talking with him about his life.
Surprise Visit from Newcastle United Legend
After a Teams call with Housing 21's Chief Operations Officer Kris Peach, Bob was visited by Newcastle United legend Bob Moncur. Moncur presented him with a signed card from the NUFC players and a Toon shirt featuring "Tait, 100" on the back. The day was a fun one for all the residents.
Royal Recognition
Then, Bob received his card from King Charles III and Queen Camilla in the post, a milestone moment for the centenarian. He expressed his thanks to staff and volunteers at the care home for organising it all, adding that he is 'incredibly grateful'.
Care Home Manager's Tribute
Jo Marshall-Little, Extra Care Services Manager at Marigold Court, said: "Bob reaching 100 years old is an incredible milestone, and on behalf of everyone at Marigold Court, I could not be prouder of Bob and this truly remarkable achievement. As the Extra Care Services Manager here at Marigold Court, I have the privilege of seeing first-hand what makes our community so special. Marigold Court is much more than a scheme; it is a family. There is a real sense of belonging here, where residents, colleagues, families and the wider community come together to support and celebrate one another. Bob is a huge part of that family, he is a genuinely special man who takes everything in his stride. His warmth, humour and positive outlook make him a pleasure to be around, and it has been wonderful to see the joy he brings to everyone around him. To be the manager of the place Bob proudly calls home and to celebrate this milestone alongside him has been a real honour."
