Kay Gosling of west Norfolk celebrates 100th birthday

The youngest of four, Kay Gosling marked her 100th birthday with her nearest and dearest. 

The centenarian, who was born in Thetford to George and Valentine Wing, has remained living in the local area all of her life. 

Although only a teenager when the Second World War broke out, she "did her bit" by working for the Air Ministry at RAF Great Ashfield, near Bury St Edmunds, and at East Wretham camp near her hometown.  

Following the war, she cooked dinners for the children of her local primary school in Northwold, between Brandon and Downham Market, where she lived for many years. 

She also went on to become the tea room manager of the National Trust’s Oxburgh Hall – a 500-year-old Catholic family home near Swaffham. 

On February 26, Mrs Gostling celebrated her momentous milestone following a small gathering of close family the previous Saturday. 

She received a “most prodigious card” from King Charles and the Queen Consort, which she was “delighted with”.  

She also had a lovely birthday cake made by Baker 39 in Thetford. 

Her family said: “This is a great achievement and a wonderful milestone. 

“Recently she had suffered quite badly with ill health, but she has battled her way through and is still living in her own place cooking and baking away happily with family nearby. 

“She's really made of strong stuff and is an inspiration to us all. 

“We wanted to wish her a happy birthday as she is a remarkable and very special lady.”