A WOKINGHAM resident with a warm heart welcomed the mayor for her 100th birthday just before Easter.
Joan Gilbert, who lives at Lovat House in Crescent Road, was joined by family and friends for the special event, held on Wednesday, March 28.
Born in Wandsworth, Mrs Gilbert has lived in Wokingham since moving from Bournemouth. Most of her life has been spent in and around London.
In her youth Joan had worked for the leading retailers Harrods and Beales. During the Second World War she had helped with the construction of Wellington bombers.
After the war, daughter, Jenny and son, Richard were the focus of Joan’s attention.
Her husband, Freddie, was a proud former soldier having seen active service in the Far East during the Second World War. After being demobbed, went on to become a property director. He died on May 4, 2010.
At the party, Jenny, said: “Mum had been a mother hen throughout her life.
“She was always willing to give a helping hand to friend and stranger alike.
“Her warm heart acted as a magnet and she never turned anyone away.”
