A Malvern man celebrating his 100th birthday says being rebellious is the secret to a long life.
Bill Poulton, a resident at Friends of the Elderly’s Davenham care home in Graham Road, celebrated the milestone with a birthday afternoon tea.
He also received a special congratulatory card from The King.
Bill, who has been a resident at Davenham since March 2019, grew up in the West Midlands and attended Dudley Boys Grammar School and Queen Mary’s Grammar School.
Bill remembers his weekly pocket money.
“I used to receive either a Penny or Half Penny, but it didn’t last long,” he said. “I either spent it on sweets, ice cream or rubber bands which I used to ping and launch surprise attacks on my parents.”
Growing up, Bill was very good at athletics. “I was a fast runner and won the 100 yards and 200 yard races at school sports days,” Bill said. “I enjoyed sports and being outdoors.”
During the war, Bill joined the Army.
“I can’t recall exactly how old I was but I do remember that I didn’t take to the Sergeant Major or Sergeant. I didn’t like the way they bossed me around.
“To be honest, I have never like anyone who tried to boss me around,” Bill added.
“That type of behaviour has never worked on me or driven me to do my best. I hate any type of act of contempt.”
Marrying his wife Joan, Bill’s career saw him move into the financial world and become a banker, a high powered and responsible position.
Happily now, Bill enjoys a quieter, less hectic life at Davenham.
“I think my secret to such a long and happy life is my motto – which is ‘Don’t do everything you’re told to do’,” he said. “You must be a bit rebellious – just a bit. It’s stood me well.
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“The other day I was talking to one of the carers who asked me if I could have any super power, which one would I chose? I laughed and said, what do you mean? I am a super power.
“I mean, reaching my 100th Birthday is a super power all by itself isn’t it?”
“Bill is a charming resident,” said Suzanne Park, the registered manager at Davenham.
“He’s very content and enjoys relaxing in his special chair and reading, joining in with some of our activities and chatting with the care team and the other residents.”
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