Бывшая танцовщица Второй мировой войны отметила 104-й день рождения

A former dancer who took part in competitions during the Second World War has celebrated her 104th birthday. Vera Garratt, who lives in Findon, marked the milestone on Saturday, August 1. The celebration was organised by Caremark Worthing and Adur, where their managing director, Raj, arranged for Vera to have her hair styled as a birthday treat. Delighted with the new hairstyle, she reminisced about her favourite classic bob, showing photographs from her past. READ MORE: Sussex Scout chosen for international role at World Scout Jamboree To make the day more memorable, the team created a collection of laminated printouts displaying the prices of everyday items from 1922 and newspaper headlines from the year Vera was born, triggering a flood of memories. Vera, who was born in London, left school at 16 to work in the Civil Service, where she was promoted to supervisor, dedicating 14 years to the role before opening a café in Harrogate. A lifelong dancer, she started at the age of two, participating in numerous competitions during the war, and even as part of the Clarkson Rose shows. Her enthusiasm for dancing remained until she was 90, with the cha-cha being her favourite. In 1973, she came third in the National Award for Latin American Dancing. Vera moved to Findon in the early 1970s to take care of her parents and has lived in the same bungalow since. For her birthday, her carers made sure to cater to her sweet tooth by surprising her with a homemade Victoria sponge cake. READ MORE: Homemaker wins £10,000 every month for a year after lottery win Throughout the day, they brought birthday cards, balloons, flowers, and chocolates. One carer even brought along their dog for a cuddle, which Vera thoroughly enjoyed. The Caremark Worthing & Adur office team also sent her flowers, a balloon, and a birthday card to express their best wishes. Vera, who has never been married and has no children, expressed feeling "overwhelmed in the loveliest of ways." When asked about the secret to her longevity, she simply replied, "Dancing."