A SOLIHULL care home resident was treated to a surprise 99th birthday celebration with children from a nearby nursery.
Resident and veteran Ron Catton turned 99 on Wednesday, May 22 and enjoyed a party with the Sunrise of Solihull team, his family and friends as well as children from the Mad Hatters Day Nursery.
The Shirley nursery children visit the Worcester Way care home every Wednesday for intergenerational activities and they have formed bonds with many residents.
Sessions include arts and crafts, sing-alongs and board-games.
But at the special party, Mr Catton enjoyed a scrumptious birthday cake and everyone played pass the parcel together.
Before moving to the home seven years ago, Ron worked in the printing industry.
He was also a beekeeper and spent seven years in the armed forces.
Mr Catton used to enjoy horse-riding and loved playing badminton. He is currently writing his own autobiography.
Ron has a son, daughter, grandchildren and great grandchildren – and says his secret for living to 99 is to keep fit and stay active.
Director of community relations Jo Hopkins said: “Ron is a much-loved resident and it was just wonderful celebrating his 99th birthday.
“He has such a special and close bond with the little children – it was just fitting having them here on the day.
“Ron told us that if he manages to make it to 100 that he would very much like to have a snooze on the day as he may need it.
“He has a great sense of humour. We at the community already have big plans for his 100th birthday and we are currently busy planning his book launch too!”
