Portsmouth 100-year-old Rita enjoys a socially-distanced milestone birthday

Surrounded by more than 20 of her friends from St Mary’s Church, Fratton, Rita Fergusson celebrated her 100th birthday in socially-distanced style.
By Annie Lewis
Published 1st Sep 2020, 09:57 BST
Updated 1st Sep 2020, 17:57 BST
Rita Fergusson with Canon Bob White and friends outside St Mary's Church, Portsmouth. Picture: Habibur RahmanRita Fergusson with Canon Bob White and friends outside St Mary's Church, Portsmouth. Picture: Habibur Rahman
Rita Fergusson with Canon Bob White and friends outside St Mary's Church, Portsmouth. Picture: Habibur Rahman

With her special birthday cake, flowers and countless cards, Rita says she does not feel a day older. ‘My secret is to keep active,’ she says.

Born on August 25, 1920, in Sandringham Road, Fratton, she still lives in the same house independently.

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During the Second World War, Rita was a Wren and reached the rank of Petty Officer.

Rita Fergusson outside St Mary's Church, Portsmouth. Picture: Habibur RahmanRita Fergusson outside St Mary's Church, Portsmouth. Picture: Habibur Rahman
Rita Fergusson outside St Mary's Church, Portsmouth. Picture: Habibur Rahman

Her son, Ed, says: ‘She was always involved in youth and music clubs in the city. She used to love going to concerts at Guildhall.’

As an avid walker, Rita was a member of the Ramblers’ Association and loves dogs – she was a leading campaigner for dogs to be allowed into Victoria Park.

She is also a regular worshipper at St Mary’s Church, and vicar Canon Bob White says: ‘She is an inspiration. Everyone loves her dearly.’

Related topics:St Mary's ChurchPortsmouth