Caring for others is secret to long life, says 100-year-old

Isabella, known as Bella, celebrated the milestone occasion with a day to remember as family, friends and everyone at Field View Care Home in Blackhall held a party.

Family members travelled from Cheshire to be with her.

Born in 1915 to parents Elizabeth and Joseph Henderson, Bella grew up in Shotton Colliery with her brother Joseph and sister Frances.

Her father was one of the first local men to volunteer for service in the First World War.

Bella worked as a housemaid and then in a chemist before meeting and marrying her husband Joseph William Boardman.

The couple married on Easter Saturday in 1938 and later had a daughter Frances.

Bella also has two grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

She began her birthday by opening cards and gifts before being presented with a special birthday cake, with well-wishers singing Happy Birthday to her.

Bella moved into Field View in June last year and is much-loved by staff and fellow residents.

Home deputy manager Karen Collins said: “This lady can run rings round us and she is 100!

“Staff have been joking with her as to the secret of how she keeps her good skin. There isn’t a wrinkle.

“Regarding her age she said the secret is caring for others. Bella didn’t only look after her own family, she helped look after neighbours’ children when they were struggling.

“She is an absolute pleasure and a joy to have here.”