Selston twins celebrate 100th birthdays

Though they live in different care homes, the sisters got together on their special day last Wednesday to wish each other a happy birthday.

And despite their advanced years, they are both in such good health that a host of parties and events were organised to mark the occasion.

The twins had a birthday dinner for close family and friends the weekend before their big day and on Saturday, a party was held at St Helen’s Church in Selston - where they have been active members throughout their lives.

Dozens of friends dropped in to help them celebrate.

Said Nora: “We love Selston church and people there have always been very kind and helpful - we are very grateful.”

Marian said that she had never given much thought to reaching the milestone - but there is no secret to it.

“Birthdays came and went but It never occured to me that it was possible to live to be 100,” she said.

“I have just been lucky. I am quite sure there are many people who are living just like I am and it doesn’t last as long!”

The twins were born in Selston and Marion now lives at Millington Springs Nursing Home in the village, while Nora lives at Pinxton Manor Care Home, just a few miles away.

Marion was married to George and they had two children, a son Peter and daughter Pauline. She has four grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She was a primary school teacher and pupils from Holly Hill School - which she taught at - visited her on her birthday as did the Pye Hill Male Voice choir, who sang for her.

Nora never married and was a social worker at Derbyshire County Council. She moved to Pinxton when she retired.

She said that in many ways it is a ‘great honour’ to be 100 and described her sister as ‘her number one love’.