Surprise party makes childhood dream come true for Phil, 102

Phil Briggs had never had a birthday party.

Staff at Hazelmere House Bupa Care Home made his wish come true to mark his special milestone.

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A bumper celebration was organised as part of the Wilmslow home’s Never Too Late initiative.

Phil Briggs enjoys some birthday cake with resident Normal Toole (Image: Hazelmere House Bupa Care Home)

Activity co-ordinator Hayley Gray teamed up with colleagues and Phil’s friends to make sure that the day lived up to his hopes and dreams.

The birthday bash included fun party games such as pass the parcel and pin a tail on the donkey.

Phil Briggs enjoys trying to in a tail on a donkey in one of the party games (Image: Hazelmere House Bupa Care Home)

Phil’s favourite refreshments, including his tipple of choice, a large Baileys, was the icing on the cake.

Phil said: “I am so grateful to the team for making my birthday the most special day possible and it was such a fantastic surprise.

“I’ve always dreamt of having a big party with my nearest and dearest and I’m so happy that it was able to become a reality.

Phil had great fun and said it was 'the most special day possible' (Image: Hazelmere House Bupa Care Home)

“My advice for a long and happy life is to stay active and keep cycling!”

Home manager Joanne Thackwell said: “We were so pleased to make Phil’s dream of having a party come to life on his 102nd birthday.

“He is a joy to have in the home and always throws himself into activities.

“Celebrating milestone birthdays is incredibly important to us and occasions such as these really do boost our residents’ wellbeing and bring such joy to the home.”

Having lived in Wilmslow since he was a child, Phil still loves living being a local.

Family means a lot to him and he enjoys spending time with his three sons, Michael, Richard, and David and three grandchildren

Phil Briggs, centre, with, from left, sons Richard and David and daughter-in-law Susan (Image: Hazelmere House Bupa Care Home)

Phil’s career as an engineer was kickstarted when he spent five years in the army.

During the Second World War, he served in Algeria and Vesuvius as a captain.

Afterwards, he worked on cloth guiding equipment before moving to Fielden Electronics.

Phil then set up his own factory with a friend, which he ran for 10 years.

After completing a PhD in engineering, he studied for a law degree, to broaden is knowledge.

Phil Briggs enjoys playing the piano (Image: Hazelmere House Bupa Care Home)

This much-loved man is popular among residents and carers and enjoys playing the piano for everyone and joining in group games.

This energetic chap continues to take a keen interest in handy work and can often be found fixing things on his work bench.

The Hazelmere team hope to continue making residents’ childhood dreams come true.