News, East Midlands
“We’re having a bit of a rave. I’ve always loved dancing. I’m enjoying it, every minute of it.”
Hilda Jackson proved herself a twisted retire-starter by celebrating her 105th birthday with a DJ, rave lighting, UV paint and glowsticks.
The care home resident, from Derbyshire, kicked off her big day by being interviewed by Radio 2’s Scott Mills, who told listeners: “Hilda loves the rave.”
She said she loved every minute of her party on Tuesday and felt grateful for the dozens of birthday cards and well wishes, adding it was “nice to see all these people”.
Scott invited Hilda to take part in the show’s The Birthday Game, in which guests are presented with a selection of song choices.
She was not keen on the first song – Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes) by Edison Lighthouse – which was number one on a previous birthday.
However, Scott then played 2 Unlimited’s 1993 dance classic No Limit, to which Hilda moved along, gave the thumbs-up and responded: “I rather like that.”
Hilda, who was born when David Lloyd George was prime minister, now lives at Holbrook Hall Residential Home, near Belper, where she is one of the oldest residents.
Staff at the care home, who organised the rave, said she had “always been a big fan of dancing and living life to the fullest”.
As well as dance bangers, her celebrations included traditional party songs plus food and drink.
Hilda told the : “We’re having a bit of a rave, dancing. I’ve always loved dancing.
“I’m enjoying it, every minute of it. It’s great.
“I never thought I’d get to this age but fortunately I’m here, which I’m grateful for.”
When asked by Scott Mills, what the secret was her to longevity, she responded: “I’m going to be truthful with you. I haven’t got a secret at all.
“I just keep on and on while I can and take the day today as it comes.”
Staff had asked people to send birthday cards to make Hilda’s day more special.
Hilda said: “I don’t know where they’ve all come from. They are wonderful. I’m so grateful to people.”
She said she was especially “shocked” when she received a card from the Royal Family.
“That was an absolute surprise. I never thought I’d ever get that card,” she added.
