101 young years young due to passion for marmalade

A smiling and happy Fred Hockey celebrated his 101st Birthday at Forest View care home in Burgess Hill last week.
Fred Hockey celebrates 101st birthday SUS-140318-110127001Fred Hockey celebrates 101st birthday SUS-140318-110127001
Fred Hockey celebrates 101st birthday SUS-140318-110127001

The World War two veteran, who served his country by spending time on patrol as a sniper in Egypt and Italy, became a resident in Shaw care home Forest View a year ago.

Fred is described by staff as being a lover of life who still enjoys a good joke, someone who likes to speak his mind and who loves to have a good debate.

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In his youth Fred enjoyed life as a city worker, his love for politics and debate grew whilst working as a manager at the ‘Institute of Directors’ in the City, working tirelessly to assist senior government officials. Fred always held a good work ethic and instilled this as being the way forward for his children Pauline and Ian.

Up until last year, Fred had managed to stay independent however his increasing care needs meant move into full time care would benefit him.

Fred’s family believe his longevity is due to his incredibly healthy lifetime diet of prunes, porridge, stewed apples, lots of fresh veg and of course toast and heaps of marmalade (Paddington Bear, eat your heart out!).

Fred used to really enjoy making his own marmaleade and jams every year.

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Fred’s son Ian said: “Dad is certainly a unique individual and still maintains his strong character.

“It is so reassuring to know that he is well cared for in Forest View, where everyone is so friendly and kind.

“It seems like he’s certainly made his mark there and does appear to get on extremely well with the staff, especially the girls who he enjoys a little friendly banter with.”

On summing up his birthday, Fred said: “I’m ok here, its home now and the girls look after me, my secret is healthy food and an inquisitive mind.”

Award winning care home, Forest View is operated by leading national provider, Shaw healthcare and is one of thireteen services operated throughout west Sussex region.

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