One of the UK's oldest residents, Ivy Heart from Crewe, celebrated her 105th birthday, surrounded by a haul of well wishes from the local community.  

Ivy enjoyed her big party with her family, friends and heartening haul of 270 cards after carers at her home, Belong Care Village, Brookhouse Drive, put a callout to locals.

After the request spread via social media and word of mouth, the Belong team surprised their resident with the remarkable outcome of the appeal.   

Ivy Heart enjoyed her big 105th birthday party with her family, friends and heartening haul of 270 cards, after carers at her home, Belong Care Village, Brookhouse Drive, put a callout to locals (Ryan Parker).

Ivy said: "For me, my age is just a number, and the number just keeps getting bigger. 

"I have lived a very long life, and I believe it is all about being happy and enjoying what you do and what you have got." 

More contributions came from young friends at nearby Pebble Brook Primary School, with pupils providing their rendition of Happy Birthday. 

Live entertainment followed, as did the presentation of gifts and a special cake whipped up by the village's in-house bistro team. 

Also joining the fun, Crewe Town mayor, Cllr Dawn Clark, dropped by to share her favourite Ivy stories, having known her for a number of years.  

Born into a world coming to the terms with the impact of World War One, Ivy has seen no fewer than five monarchs and 23 prime ministers.

Crewe Town mayor, Cllr Dawn Clark, dropped by to share her favourite Ivy stories, having known her for a number of years (Belong Crewe).

Fiercely independent, it was following the sad and sudden death of her husband George when Ivy moved to Abergele, North Wales, dedicating her time to her dogs and singing in local choirs. 

Ivy later returned to Crewe to train as a teacher, supporting boys with learning difficulties. 

She resided in her home until earlier this year, when she chose to move to Belong Crewe, the not-for-profit dementia specialist.

Ivy joins a very small club of approximately 600 people of the same age or older in England and Wales, the last surviving of those born before the 1920s.   

Organiser of the event, Belong Crewe experience coordinator, Jessica Butler, said: "Our beautiful Ivy is very dear to us, and we wanted everyone to share in her day and give her a nice surprise.  

Belong Crewe experience coordinator, Jessica Butler (Belong Crewe).

"Her sight and hearing are not what they used to be and so she was delighted to receive so many with bold colours and some even featuring music. 

"We have had a fantastic response and we'revery grateful for everyone who's made Ivy's day special for her." 

READ MORE: New 'high-tech' family-run café launches in Crewe.

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