Kentish Express Ashford & District
Chemist’s tribute thrills centenarian
An Ashford resident was delighted to find her local chemist had decorated his shop with balloons and banners to celebrate her 100th birthday.
Connie Brooks hit the milestone on Monday April 10, and received her telegram from the Queen.
Miss Brooks was born in Hythe but moved to Aldington. From 1935 she ran Bonnington Post Office for more than 50 years.
During the Second World War she worked as an RAF plotter at Tangmere in East Sussex.
She moved to Singleton Farm in Ashford around 20 years ago.
Her son, Ben, said: “She’s not my real mum but she’s been like a mum to me and I’ve looked after her for many years.
“She has been using Ashworth’s Chemist in Beaver Road, Ashford for 83 years, and has known owner Mr Shah since he took over 40 years ago.
“Over the years, they have always been absolutely brilliant to her.
“So it was lovely to see them go all out for her birthday, and we would like to say a huge thanks for everything they did.”
To celebrate her birthday, Miss Brooks was also treated to dinner by her friends at the Punch Tavern in Sturry and at the Park Road Fish Bar, in Hythe.
Ben added: “She’s a regular at both places and they also wanted to treat her for her birthday.
“Everyone has been absolutely brilliant, and she’s very grateful.”