Centenarian Gwen celebrates special birthday in revamped home
Decent Homes workmen promised Gwen Taylor she would be back in her newly-refurbished home in time for a special occasion – her 100th birthday.
They kept their promise and Mrs Taylor celebrated the milestone event on 11th December in a revamped home, complete with new kitchen, door and windows.
The £669 million Sheffield Decent Homes programme – managed by Sheffield Homes – is the biggest of its kind in the country, which will modernise thousands of homes by 2010.
Due to the nature of the work, some tenants – like Mrs Taylor - prefer to live in a rest property whilst the work is completed. Kier staff working on her house at Swallow Wood Court, Woodhouse, were determined to get her back home before the big day.
When they succeeded, they helped her celebrate with a card, flowers and chocolates.
Rotherham-born Gwen moved to Sheffield following her marriage at the age of 21 and never left. She has lived in her current home for 17 years.
“I’m really happy with my new kitchen,” said Mrs Taylor. “The old one really needed replacing. And they really looked after me in the rest home.”
After a weekend spent celebrating with family, Gwen’s daughter Joyce arranged for a visit from the Lord Mayor of Sheffield, Jackie Drayton, as well as a birthday message from the Queen. She also had a surprise festive visit and present from Santa – which is just as well since Mrs Taylor has always believed in Father Christmas!
Adam Midgley, Sheffield Homes Project Manager, said: “It’s great to hear how we got Mrs Taylor back into her home in time for her 100th birthday. Our contractors place a strong emphasis on good customer care and getting involved with the communities they serve. This is a great example of that commitment.”
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