A POLITE care home resident "blessed with good health and humour" has celebrated turning a century old.

Stephen Haywards, of Waters View Residential Home, in Little Oakley, celebrated his 100th birthday last Wednesday. 

The 100-year-old was born in Hackey, London, in the Mothers' Salvation Army Hospital.

The hospital was opened in 1889 as a rescue and maternity home for poor young women - many of whom were pregnant but unmarried.

At that time maternity hospitals would only admit married women.

Stephen spent some of his adult life in and around Chelmsford.

He started to visit Waters View Residential Home for respite care before moving in as a permanent resident in October last year.

Up until three years ago Stephen volunteered at schools and other education establishments were he supported children learning how to read.

Claire Bird, the home's manager, said: "Stephen is a very polite and friendly man with a great sense of humour.

"He is blessed with good health and is mobile, and currently is not on any prescribed medication.

"Stephen was kept very busy during his birthday week with cards and phone calls arriving from all around the world."

Stephen celebrated his birthday with his family who took him to a restaurant he has visited often over the years in Chelmsford on Saturday, April 20.

On his actual birthday Stephen was visited by his daughter and son and their partners.

He was also visited by Harwich's mayor Charlie Powell who presented Stephen with his telegram from the Queen.

Claire added: "Everyone at Waters View hopes Stephen had a wonderful 100th birthday."