TWO people were needed to carry in a birthday cake for one of Andover’s oldest residents as she celebrated turning 104 last week.

Rosa Hodgson, who lives in Millway House Nursing Home, had a small party with carers and family for her birthday on Thursday, December 29.

Born and bred in Tottenham, Mrs Hodgson lived there until she married her husband Jim.

Her niece, Margaret Gee, said her aunt then retired and lived in Broadstairs briefly before moving to Belmont Road, Andover over 30 years ago.

A keen Tottenham Hotspur supporter, she loved watching football and snooker on the TV, and kept walking to throughout her 80s.

Mrs Gee said her aunt worked for MK Electric, in Edmonton, making electric plugs.

The Silkweavers Road resident, who visits her relative around once a week, said: “It’s marvellous isn’t it?

“It was a lovely party and I think she enjoyed it too.

“She was sat in her armchair and I think she was aware of what was going on, she enjoyed the cake, it was very nice.

“She liked the football and snooker and I used to go shopping for her once a week.

“She was quite independent until she had a fall and she was a very quiet person, a private person.

“She wasn’t up for clubs or pubs, kept herself to herself, and was friendly with her neighbours.

“She’s a lovely lady, all the staff there love her because they say she gives them a lovely smile.

“She’s no trouble to anybody.”

Carers were not sure she would be fit enough for the party, but the centenarian was able to sit in her bedside chair to enjoy her impressive light sponge birthday treat, which had been baked by one of the carers at the home.

Yvonne West, activities coordinator of Millway House Nursing Home, said: “It’s amazing, she doesn’t look a day over 80.

“Her skin is very good and until a couple of years ago she used to join in the activities, you saw her tapping her feet to the music.

“She’s a little rascal, she’s made some very naughty remarks and is a lovely lady,” she added.