8:30am Monday 20th December 2010
By Adam Newson
A Sandridge woman celebrated her 100th birthday with a visit from the Mayor of St Albans.
Ruth Dyson was paid a visit by Councillor Maxine Crawley on Friday as she celebrated her landmark birthday with members of Lyndon residential home, in High Street, having already enjoyed a party with her family and friends last week.
Ruth moved to Harpenden during the war and spent 70 years living in the town. She moved into the residential home in January.
She said: “I lived in Piggots Hill Lane. I remember thinking what a lovely village it was and how nice the people were.”
As is customary for people who reach the milestone, Ruth received a birthday card from the Queen on her 100th birthday on Wednesday, December 15.
She said: “I was happier to receive the cards from my friends more than the card from the Queen.”
Ruth has also been sent cards from the Boys’ Brigade, where she was a member for 50 years.
She joked: “I belonged to the Boys’ Brigade for years because I was no lady.”
Ruth mainly worked with the younger boys between the ages of seven and 12. For her work with the organisation she was made an honouree life vice president of the West Anglian battalion of the Boys Brigade.
Her many memories include booking a hot-air balloon ride to celebrate her 90th birthday, but due to the foot and mouth outbreak she was unable to take the journey.
So what does Ruth believes is the secret to such a long life? She said: “You must always have plenty to do and to drink a good old English cup of tea.”
© Copyright 2001-2012 Newsquest Media Group
http://www.stalbansreview.co.uk/trade_directory/