Big celebrations for Lil's 107th birthday

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SPECIAL celebrations have been held to mark the oldest woman in the borough's 107th birthday.

Lil Brandist marked the huge milestone surrounded by family and friends at Collyhurst Care Home, in Bedworth.

She was treated to a host of surprises including a singer who played hits from Elvis and Tom Jones and cake for the big occasion.

Mrs Brandist, a former postwoman, also received a birthday card from the Queen - now the fourth one in her collection.

Scores of visitors went along to the care home throughout the day, including sons Tom and Reg, to join in the celebrations for the big birthday.

She also received birthday wishes from other family members including her four other children, 14 grandchildren, 23 great grandchildren and six great, great grandchildren.

Mrs Brandist, whose maiden name was Lil Morson, was born on July 9, 1907 in Longford but has spent most of her life living in Bedworth.

She worked at the old Courtaulds factory, in Coventry, before changing career and working as a postwoman in Bedworth for many years.

Her late husband Henry Brandist was a painter and decorator and she lived with him in Marston Lane before moving to Conifer Court and then to Collyhurst Care Home.

Having lived through two world wars and seeing five sovereigns take to the throne, she has many stories to tell and still enjoys sharing them with all of her loved ones.

Son Tom Brandist said: "The day went lovely for her - it was really, really nice.

"There was a singer who performed Elvis and Tom Jones - all songs for the older ones which she really enjoyed. Some people were even up dancing.

"The home also organised a lovely cake for her and she had visitors all day long.

"She said how nice the card from the Queen was - she has four so far so it is getting a good collection."

Mr Brandist added that everyone at the care home helped make the day extra-special for his mum.

He said: "I would like to thank everyone for making it a nice afternoon for her. Everyone at the home did an amazing job and were absolutely brilliant."