One of Britain's most remarkable senior citizens is celebrating an extraordinary milestone today, as Marjorie Hodnett Aylward marks her 112th birthday. Affectionately known as 'Aunt Marj', she has generously shared her personal secret to longevity, offering wisdom gleaned from over a century of life experience.
A Royal Celebration at Formby Manor
Residing at Formby Manor in Merseyside for the past six years, Aunt Marj is officially recognised as the oldest person in the North West and the fifth oldest in the entire United Kingdom. The festivities include a charming tea party organised by staff and fellow residents, featuring her favourite treats. Guests will enjoy classic triangular cucumber sandwiches on brown bread with crusts removed, followed by Victoria sponge cake, tea, and even a small glass of sherry.
Adding a touch of royal splendour to the occasion, Aunt Marj has received a special birthday message from King Charles, dispatched from Buckingham Palace. She has already been inundated with more than 125 birthday cards from well-wishers, reflecting the deep affection she inspires.
The Secret to a Long and Fulfilling Life
When asked about her secret to reaching such an impressive age, Aunt Marj revealed a simple yet profound motto: 'Look forward with hope and not backward with regret.' She elaborated, stating, 'Life is for living and it is up to you to make the most of it.'
Her philosophy extends further with a guiding principle she lives by daily: 'I believe that you should do all the good that you can, by all the means that you can, in all the ways that you can, in all the places that you can, to all the people that you can, as long as ever you can.' Aunt Marj asserts that these are 'good rules to live by' and that following them ensures one 'can't go too far wrong.'
A Century of Rich History and Personal Resilience
Born in Harleston, London, before later moving to Wembley, Aunt Marj has witnessed more than a hundred years of history. She met her first husband, Stanley, in 1939 at the Fellowship of Reconciliation, marrying him in 1941 and settling in Harrow after the war. Tragedy struck when Stanley died in 1955, and just a year later, she married his brother, Hugh. Heartbreak revisited when Hugh passed away in 1958, leaving her widowed for a second time at the age of 45.
The couple had moved to Sidbury in Devon, where Aunt Marj dedicated 23 years of her life working as a reception class teacher. Her memories span significant historical events, including recalling air raids during the war while at school and singing at the 1948 London Olympics ceremony.
An Active and Engaged Lifestyle
Later in life, she moved to Formby to be closer to family, with her niece Maggie and great-niece Katie being regular visitors. Despite her advanced age, Aunt Marj remains remarkably active and engaged. Her interests include reading, writing poetry, painting, and keeping abreast of current affairs. She is also a keen rugby fan and proudly supports the Exeter Chiefs.
After the birthday celebrations, she plans to enjoy a round of her favourite game, 'Who Am I?', with staff and friends. Reflecting on her milestone, Aunt Marj shared, 'I really did not expect to get to 112 but am delighted to be here and have so much to celebrate.'
The care home's head chef has freshly baked a special Madeira birthday cake in-house for the occasion, ensuring the celebration is as sweet as Aunt Marj's outlook on life. Her story stands as a testament to resilience, positivity, and the enduring power of a hopeful forward gaze.
