A FUN-LOVING care home resident was treated like a princess as she celebrated her 100th birthday in style.

Olwen Gant donned a tiara to go alongside her pink hair and feather boa as she enjoyed a celebration complete with cake, hundreds of cards and even Hawaiian dance.

Family, friends and staff at Bassett House Care Home joined Olwen, who received cards from kind strangers who responded to an appeal on social media.

Olwen seemed to be having an amazing time with a massive smile on her face, surrounded by balloons and bunting as workers unveiled a series of birthday surprises for her. 

Despite the jubilant atmosphere it was a highly emotional day for both Olwen – or ‘Blod’ as she’s affectionately known – and her family as Covid-19 restrictions meant that for most of them, it was the first time they have been able to see one another in person for nearly two years. 

Kassandra Stallard and Richard Robinson were among the family members celebrating. 

They are not biological relatives of Olwen, but after she moved to Swindon in the 70s to help their great-grandmother look after her children, in an incredible act of compassion and love, Olwyn became their inherited second great-grandmother. 

They told the Adver of the difficulties the pandemic had caused. 

“The last 18 months have been horrible,” said Kassandra, “We haven’t been able to see her which has been devastating.”

“It’s been a very emotional day," Richard added, “This is the first time I’ve seen her in two years.” 

Family members were full of praise for the care home staff, and noted how great it was to be able to all get together and have a much-needed day of celebration. They thanked everyone who had made an effort to make Olwen's birthday special. 

Staff member Jackie Moss was responsible for the callout that led to members of the public flooding Olwen with cards and presents and for planning the birthday bash itself.

“It’s been absolutely amazing,” she said. “It’s restored your faith in humanity, there’s not been a lot of good news recently, and Blod has been poorly so to get here and be able to celebrate is so important.”

But what did the lady of the hour herself think?

Olwen said: “It’s been a really good day, I love it!”