Denis Kevin with Murdo Maciver, Resource Service Manager, and Yvonne Nyahuye, Extra Care Service Manager
A former shipbuilder who celebrated his 100th birthday surrounded by family and friends last weekend says the secret to a long life is “hard work”.
Denis Kevin, a popular figure at Notting Hill Housing’s Elgin Close extra care scheme in Hammersmith, was joined by 70 people for a special party on Sunday.
“Everybody had a great time,” said Denis. “There was cake for everyone and three tables of food. I was treated so well – I was really spoiled for the day.
“I also received my card from the Queen, which was very nice.” When asked what the secret was to his long life, he simply replied: “Hard work.”
Denis was joined by his children, Colin and Maureen, as well as his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Denis grew up in Ireland and was a keen hurling player before moving to London in 1939. He had a series of jobs including shipbuilding and working as an engineer in Brentford.
He lived in Fulham before moving to Elgin Close 14 years ago with wife Frances, who sadly died two years later.
Denis keeps himself busy as a member of the art and craft group at the centre, with a speciality for mosaic pictures and small knitted houses. Some of his work has even been sold, as well as being included in Notting Hill Housing’s past resident art exhibitions.
Chris Nugent, support officer at Elgin Close, said: “When Denis got up on his 100th birthday his first words were ‘I can’t believe it’. Well we all can, and were pleased to see so many people comes to see him at his party, including staff who have known him over the years and moved on to other places, but wanted to come back to wish him a happy birthday.”