Window surprise for Desborough's Mary as she celebrates 102nd birthday

A Desborough care home resident unable to see her family because of Covid restrictions got a surprise on her 102nd birthday - when they sang to her through the window.

Mary Higgins celebrated her birthday yesterday (Thursday) at Beech Close Care Home in Lower Street, where she has lived for about five years.

Because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic she wasn't able to have a party with her daughters and other family members.

Instead she was taken to a room by staff at the care home where, to her shock, they were waiting outside the window to wish her a happy birthday.

Mary's youngest daughter, Wendy Suddards, said: "She had no idea we were coming and it was lovely to be able to see her through the window.

"It's going to be very strange not seeing her at Christmas but we're going to Facetime her."

Born in Paisley in Scotland on December 10, 1918, Mary was one of 12 children.

She worked in the ammunition factory during the Second World War, putting the bombs in boxes with notes for the soldiers, before working at Marks & Spencer.

Mary then moved to Corby when her husband George, who she was married to for more than 60 years, got a job at the water board.

She lived in Rothwell for a while before moving to the Desborough care home, where she loves doing crosswords, reading books and anything to do with quizzes.

Wendy said: "She is a real character and everyone loves her as she is such a comedian.

"She is just a fantastic woman."

Mary has previously survived a brain tumour and a heart attack and had a knee replacement at the age of 92.

When her family visited her yesterday she stuck two fingers up as a 'V for victory' over Covid - and she can't wait to have the vaccine.

Wendy added: "She's very optimistic and just says it is what it is and we have to get on with it.

"She can't wait for the vaccine so she can get out again. She loves to get out and come and see people."

Mary has three daughters - Joyce, June and Wendy - as well as five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.