105-year-old (still) touts Guinness as the secret to a long life

105-year-old Kathleen Hennings has revealed the secret to living a long and happy life – a pint or two of Guinness!

Kathleen, who lives at Care UK’s Sandfields on St Georges Road, celebrated her 105th birthday this month with her friends, fellow residents, and team members - and yes, some treats from Guinness.

Profiling the centenarian, Care UK says Kathleen was born on October 2, 1919 and grew up in Brixton, London, where she later began a successful career as an accountant. She enjoyed spending evenings dancing in Covent Garden and regularly attended the Royal Opera House to watch operas and ballets.

After living in London throughout World War II, Kathleen decided she wanted a taste of country life. In 1965, she moved to the Cotswolds near Cheltenham with her mother, her brother Charlie, and her dachshund Rusty.

Reflecting on her many happy years, Kathleen revealed the secret to living a long life: “Drink Guinness and don’t marry!”

The 105-year-old offered similar advice on her previous birthdays - the proof is in the pints, you could say!

To help make Kathleen’s birthday one to remember, Kathleen was gifted a hamper by Guinness with pint glasses, a kitchen apron, slippers, chocolates, and, of course, plenty of the famous black stout. 

The Sandfields team also threw her a special party complete with a delicious birthday cake specially made by the home’s talented Head Chef.

Commenting on her big day, Kathleen said: “It was so nice to see my lovely friends and neighbours. I’ve been spoilt. Thank you so much.”

Malaika Charles, Home Manager at Sandfields, said: "We love celebrating special milestones at Sandfields, and Kathleen's 105th birthday certainly called for a party! 

"It was wonderful to see Kathleen surrounded by all her loved ones to commemorate such an incredible milestone.

"The team put in a lot of effort to ensure that her day was memorable, and we want to say thank you to everyone who joined us in raising a glass of Guinness to Kathleen!"

Sandfields is a state-of-the-art care home which provides full-time residential, nursing, dementia and short-term respite care. The care home incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities and includes its own cinema, hair salon, and café.