A great great-grandmother born on a Leap Day 100 years ago is celebrating her “25th” birthday this weekend.
Doris Cleife actually turns 100 today but since she was born on February 29, a Leap Day, it means she only gets it once every four years.
Staff at Doris’ Brunel Court care home in Portsmouth planned a bash for Doris with local dignitaries, friends and residents all invited.
Manager Katrina Morgan said: “We know that family means so much to Doris and they will all be celebrating with her at a private party on her actual birthday on Saturday but the residents here wanted to throw a surprise tea party as well.
“We are delighted that we are able to share such a special moment with her and her friends here.”
At the surprise tea party, Doris was given a cake with the number “25” on top, since it’s the 25th time in her life that her birth date, February 29th, has come around.
Doris, a retired hairdresser, reacted to hitting 100 by telling PA news Agency: “I just take it as it comes, I can’t do much about it.
“I honestly don’t know, I think to myself, I never dreamed I would get this far, I lost my mother when she was quite young and my granny died when she was 47 but here we are, and I have a sister who is 98.
“I don’t feel any different.
“I’ve waited all my life to be famous and now it happens like this.”
She added: “I am waiting for my letter from the Queen.
“To be honest, I am feeling quite philosophical about becoming 100, but I am looking forward to spending time with my new friends and my family.”
