Tess Strikes Up the Band on her 100th Birthday

Tess Beeson celebrated her 100^th birthday in style yesterday at Sheffield Homes’ John Trickett House Sheltered Housing Scheme, Chapeltown, with the help of her family, friends, residents and accompanied by the High Green Brass Band!                                          

                                                       

The staff and residents of John Trickett House provided a buffet spread and Sheffield Homes surprised Tess with a birthday cake. Tess also received a telegram from the Queen.

 

Tess, born in Sheffield in 1907, started a musical career before the outbreak of the Second World War.  She regularly sang and played the piano in pubs and clubs in the area.  During this time, whilst singing at a club in Clay Cross, she was to meet her future husband Sam Beeson.

 

During the war Tess worked in Ammunitions at Cravens of Sheffield while Sam served in the Army.  At the end of the War they ran a grocers shop at Douglas Rd, Park Wood Springs, for many years.

 

In 1948 Tess and Sam decided to take over the tenancy at the Reindeer Inn, Douglas Rd, Park Wood Springs.  Many years later Tess and Sam moved to the Acorn Inn, Burncross Rd.  When Sam died Tess ran the pub on her own until she retired in 1972.

 

Jasper South, Sheffield Homes Assistant Director of Housing Management, said: “We’re really pleased that we have been able to help Tess celebrate her 100^th birthday in such style! Tess’ birthday is a particular momentous occasion as it symbolises how this scheme can really support older people."

 

Tess, who is registered blind, moved to John Trickett House Sheltered Housing Scheme in September 2001 and is their oldest resident.