THELMA Rae spent much of her married life travelling and is now enjoying life in a Forest care home.

She celebrated her 100th birthday with family, friends and staff at the The Elms in Staunton last week.

Mrs Rae moved into The Elms at Staunton, near Coleford, just three months ago from her home in Tutshill.

Mrs Rae travelled extensively during her married life as her husband was an administrator for the NAAFI – the Navy, Army and Air Force Institutes – which ran canteens and shops for military personnel.

Their postings included the Middle East and Egypt.

Friends and family visited on her birthday last Friday (November 7) and staff baked a celebration cake.

She said: “The staff here are wonderful – it’s much better than being on your own.”

Mrs Rae was born in London in November 1919 and moved to the Forest 22 years ago when her son retired.

She said: “I’ve loved living in this area with its beautiful countryside and scenery.”