One of Leamington's great characters turns 109 - and he is still up for a challenge!
Leamington's remarkable man John Farringdon marked his 109th birthday with a day of celebrations - including a full English breakfast to get him started!
Considered to be the oldest man in Warwickshire, John celebrated the milestone moment yesterday (Tuesday June 8) with a lovely trip down memory lane by visiting the Royal Pump Rooms and Art Gallery and Museum, before taking a stroll along the Parade.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdOn his return, John, joined by residents, staff, friends and his family in Devon (via video link) gathered together for a super afternoon tea party with bubbles, and special birthday cake of fresh cream and strawberries.
John has lived at Cubbington Mill care home for over three years, having previously lived and worked in Leamington for 40 years.
He’s is known to so many people as a great character and always ready to take on a new challenge.
This year, John will have the honour of carrying the Queen’s Baton in the final ten-day countdown of the relay to the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games as it passes through Kenilworth.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdThe birthday boy said: “It was lovely to get out and about today, Leamington has changed over years but it’s still very beautiful. I’ve had a wonderful day, but age is only a number, I’m not sure what all the fuss is about!”
Among those attending were representatives from Morrisons in Leamington who presented John with a hamper full of ‘all his favourite things’ including French brie and scotch eggs.
Laura Russell, general manager of Barchester Cubbington Mill added: “We’re delighted to be celebrating a truly remarkable man as he reaches this amazing milestone.
John is such a popular resident who in no way looks his age. We’re all looking forward to his planned week of celebrations, with a Cuppa Concert from The Birmingham Symphony Orchestra performing for him on Thursday June 9, and finishing the week off in style on Saturday June 11 with a parade of 1900’s vintage cars visiting the home.”