Household Cavalry wish for woman, 100, comes true

Gladys Barton was born and raised in Stowmarket before she moved to Avocet Court Care Home in February 2023

A woman's lifelong wish to take in the sights and sounds of the Household Cavalry came true as they created a special video message for her 100th birthday.

Gladys Barton, who is a resident of a care home in Ipswich but was born and raised in Stowmarket, Suffolk, had always wanted to see the cavalry on parades in London, but had never managed to do so.

Hayley Halsall, the home's hospitality services manager, said the team "decided to try and pull a few strings" as her big birthday approached.

Thanks to a team member whose brother was in the Household Guards, Mrs Barton was surprised with a video performance of Happy Birthday from the regiment's band, which was "wonderful", Ms Halsall said.

The Household Cavalry is made up of The Life Guards and The Blues and Royals

"We wanted to make the day special for Gladys and love to make our residents' wishes come true," she added.

"Gladys was really touched to hear Happy Birthday played for her and to get some messages from the guardsmen and women."

Mrs Barton previously lived on a smallholding where she and her husband embraced a self-sufficient lifestyle, according to Avocet Court, where she lives.

Together they raised animals, grew their own vegetables and even took on winemaking, crafting 10 varieties over the years.

"It's no wonder that Gladys' advice for a long life includes enjoying a glass of wine each day," a spokesperson for the home added.