A centenarian who credits his long life to no drinking, smoking and keeping busy has celebrated his 100th birthday with a French-themed lunch.
French ex-pat Adrien Chambrin marked his big day surrounded by family and friends, Residents and staff Hartlepool’s Sheraton Court Care Home on Saturday.
The father and grand-father-of-two grew up on a farm in Brittany with his four siblings. He worked on the farm before joining the French Navy.
Mr Chambrin went to school in Landoc and worked as a baker and rigger as well as in steel erection. He was employed as a sheet metal worked and enjoyed holidays in Benidorm.
He met his wife, Eva, in 1940 and moved to her native Hartlepool – living in West View.
Mr Chamrin’s hobbies include decorating, fishing and listening to accordion music and when asked what his secret is to a long life, he replied “no smoking, no drinking and keeping busy working.”
His landmark birthday party was organised by the home’s Wellbeing Co-Ordinator, Chris Terry, who had been planning the celebration where around 40 well-wisher’s attended, since Christmas.
Entertainment included singer Raymond Terry, karaoke with war songs and piñata, which Mr Chambrin managed to break all by himself. He also received a card and a message from the Queen.
The room was decorated with French tricolours and an arch made of 100-year birthday balloons.
Adrien Chambrin commented:
“I can’t believe so many people wanted to celebrate with me! I had a fantastic day and I was absolutely thrilled to receive a card from the Queen.”
Carole Thomson, Sheraton Court’s Home Manager, commented:
“It was an honour to celebrate Adrien’s birthday with him and to be a part of his milestone. He was delighted with all the well wishes that he received.”