Birthday girl Violet turns 103 in lockdown
A great-grandmother had to celebrate her 103rd birthday in lockdown this year – but enjoyed cake, flowers and Facetime calls from her family.
Violet Perkins, who lives at Willow Rose care home in Willenhall but comes from Short Heath, hit the milestone age at the end of August – and is one of the oldest people in the Black Country.
Sadly, due to coronavirus, the care home is in lockdown and her family were only allowed to wave at her through the window on her special day.
But they made sure she was treated for the big event, and organised a special cake, flowers and balloons.
Her granddaughter Donna Fellows, who is also her main carer, said it was "an emotional day".
She said: "It was very emotional seeing Nan but not being able to actually go inside. She blew me a kiss and it broke my heart.
"They did lift lockdown at the home a while ago and I went to do her hair – I would see her every day – but now they're back in lockdown again.
"She still had a lovely day, we Facetime her and speak to her that way – but it was very emotional not being there."
Violet was originally born in Glasgow but moved to Portobello, Willenhall, at the age of 17 when her parents moved here to find work.
Her passions are playing bingo, horse racing and watching the soaps, as well as having a laugh with her family and friends.
The 103-year-old also has a passion for fashion and loves shopping, with one of her favourite sayings being “you may as well be out the world than out the fashion”.
She puts the secret to her longevity down to a "drop of whiskey".
