Portsmouth 100-year-old Rita enjoys a socially-distanced milestone birthday
Surrounded by more than 20 of her friends from St Mary’s Church, Fratton, Rita Fergusson celebrated her 100th birthday in socially-distanced style.
With her special birthday cake, flowers and countless cards, Rita says she does not feel a day older. ‘My secret is to keep active,’ she says.
Born on August 25, 1920, in Sandringham Road, Fratton, she still lives in the same house independently.
During the Second World War, Rita was a Wren and reached the rank of Petty Officer.
Her son, Ed, says: ‘She was always involved in youth and music clubs in the city. She used to love going to concerts at Guildhall.’
As an avid walker, Rita was a member of the Ramblers’ Association and loves dogs – she was a leading campaigner for dogs to be allowed into Victoria Park.
She is also a regular worshipper at St Mary’s Church, and vicar Canon Bob White says: ‘She is an inspiration. Everyone loves her dearly.’