A Bollinbrook resident has become a centenarian, and received a letter from King Charles III.

Joyce Mary Shatwell, a resident at The Rowans Care Centre in Macclesfield, celebrated her remarkable 100th birthday with a lively party surrounded by family, friends, staff, and fellow residents.

The occasion was made extra special with the arrival of a card from His Majesty The King, marking a century of Joyce's life filled with memorable experiences and achievements.

Born on September 12 1924 in Bradford, Joyce's early years were shaped by significant events, including the family's move to Handforth in Cheshire in 1939, just before the outbreak of the Second World War.

Joyce, with her well-wishes from King Charles and Camilla. (Image - Supplied)

While completing her education at Stockport Grammar School for Girls, Joyce met her future husband, Eric, who was attending the Boys' school. The couple married in 1950 and initially settled in Cheadle before moving to Macclesfield in 1963 after a brief period living in Linlithgow, Scotland.

Throughout her life, Joyce's resilience and 'Yorkshire grit' were evident. After leaving school, she worked as a seamstress for Silk Merchants W. S. Cleggs in Wilmslow. During the war, she contributed to the national effort by working for Humphrey Brothers (Umbro), which had switched production from football kits to military uniforms. In addition, Joyce spent time volunteering at the Red Cross canteen at a local RAF base and at the Church Army canteen in Wilmslow, where she was often washing up in the cellar but occasionally served and chatted with the airmen.

Joyce enjoys the company of her son David, daughter-in-law Liz, two step-grandchildren Mark and Nicole, and two step-great-grandchildren Henry and Scarlet, as well as her younger sister Betty.

David Shatwell, Joyce's son, said: "Mum has always been an inspiration to our family, from her wartime efforts to her unwavering support for us all. Whether it was joining us on holidays around the world or attending Pride in Brighton, she's always been 'up for anything'."

The care home is located on Merriden Drive. (Image - Canterbury Care)

Despite nervous beginnings, such as embarking on her first family camping holiday in Linlithgow still wearing her slippers, Joyce became an avid traveller, enjoying cruises in the Mediterranean, Canary Islands, and Baltic with David, Liz and Nicole.

Reflecting on her long life, Joyce attributes her longevity to a combination of Yorkshire determination and the loving support of family, friends, and neighbours. More recently, the dedicated care from the staff at The Rowans has been invaluable.

Sandra Ludlow, manager of The Rowans, expressed her delight at celebrating Joyce's milestone birthday: "It's a privilege to care for Joyce and to witness her enthusiasm for life, even at 100. She's an incredible lady, and we were honoured to celebrate such a special day with her and her wonderful family."