Special celebration at Sunderland care home with socially-distanced tea party for 100th birthday

Sarah May Bulmer, who lives at Falstone Manor Care Home in Roker, Sunderland, marked her 100th birthday on Sunday, May 31, with a socially-distanced tea party to toast the big occasion.

And while it was perhaps not the celebration Sarah, known affectionately as ‘Sadie’, and her loved ones had in mind, the care home team made sure she had a fantastic day despite the coronavirus lockdown.

Nephew Keith, 63, told the Echo that he was able to wish his auntie a ‘Happy Birthday’ through the window at Falstone Manor, and watch her open her gifts via FaceTime.

Originally from Sunderland’s East End, Sarah was one of seven children and went on to travel the North East with her father, supporting sales for the family business – a clay pipe-making firm in James William Street.

During the Second World War, Sarah then worked at an engineering factory on the outskirts of Manchester.

After meeting and marrying husband John, who worked as a sea-going engineer, the couple settled down to a happy life at their home in Cooper Street, Roker.

Sarah, who has many beloved nieces and nephews, has been at Falstone Manor for around five years due to ill health and dementia.

Keith added: “We can’t thank the home and their staff enough for what they have done for her today. She’s been having a grand old time.”

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