Crafted flowers plea for veteran's centenary suprise

Joan will celebrate her 100th birthday on 19 October

A care home has asked people to help fill a "mischievous" and "sparkly" veteran's room with hand crafted flowers for a 100th birthday surprise.

Hartford Care has put a call out for flowers in any form - drawn, crafted, painted or crocheted - to celebrate the centenary of its Salisbury Ashley Grange resident Joan.

Joan, who was a pilot in World War Two, will see people visit her from as far away as Canada for her special day.

Alison Wetherall, from Ashley Grange, said Joan has "the most amazing sense of humour" and the care home would not be the same without her.

'Plenty of cake'

"We’re hoping lots of people get involved with our appeal for flowers," Ms Wetherall said.

"Joan has the most amazing sense of humour and brings her mischievousness each day in our home.

"She enjoys music and a good sing along and is always sporting a lovely pair of shoes and some sparkle.

"She really deserves this surprise. Joan says she’s looking forward to her party as long as there’s plenty of cake and chocolate."

Flowers can be posted or dropped off at Ashley Grange Care Home ahead of Joan's birthday on 19 October.