5:01pm Monday 8th February 2010
By Harriet Marsh
A CAKE-BAKING queen from Haringey who turns 100 tomorrow says the secret to a long life is caring for others.
Former care worker Lucy Kirby, of Hildridge Court, Lancaster Road, spent the eve of her milestone birthday with friends at Woodside Day Centre, in White Hart Lane.
The great-great-grandmother, born in Wandsworth on February 9, 1910, received flowers from the Mayor of Haringey, Councillor Bernice Vanier, and enjoyed a performance by Connaught Opera.
Mrs Kirby, who lives in sheltered housing, said: "I've reached this age through hard work, keeping busy and helping people."
She added: "I can't do dancing or anything now because of my legs, but the people here are very nice.
"They've always been very helpful and we get on very well."
Reflecting on her century, Mrs Kirby said: "There have been so many changes. I think people are more friendly now.
"But there have been too many wars. I can remember the First World War but these wars nowadays are very ridiculous. People should be able to express themselves better."
The centenarian was married twice and outlives her sons Robert and Francis. She has two grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren, aged one and five years old.
On Sunday, the five generations of Mrs Kirby's family enjoyed a celebratory lunch.
Mrs Kirby said: "I feel embarrassed at a large party so it has been good to see a few people on my own. My family are very good to me."
Daughter-in-law Joan Coleman, of Highgate, says Mrs Kirby remains independent. Her hobbies include scrabble, knitting and arts and crafts.
"Lucy still cooks her meals and makes lovely pastries and cakes," she said.
"There's a good group of people in her building. The sheltered housing makes such a difference as opposed to a care home."
She added: "Tomorrow we are taking Lucy out to dinner, so it's going to be a three-day event. She's looking forward to getting her royal telegram."
Until her retirement, Mrs Kirby was a deputy manager in a Richmond residential home.
Belquis Rawesh, Woodside's deputy manager, said Mrs Kirby is very supportive to other users at the centre, which she has visited regularly since 2004.
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