101st birthday celebrations go with a swing!

Celebrations went with a swing when a former golfer celebrated her 101^st birthday in Dorset with the help of popular singing duo, The Land Girls.

Rosalind Swaffield, who was ladies’ captain at Came Down Golf Club near Dorchester 47 years ago, was the toast of staff and residents at Colten Care’s Castle View.

The Poundbury home arranged for a tea party in Rosalind’s honour as well as the performance by The Land Girls featuring a selection of popular songs.

Rosalind, who was married to the late Major Robert Swaffield, was also a member at Weymouth Golf Club.

She joined Came Down in 1966 and carried on playing until 1998, during which time she played with the late Sir Bruce Forsyth during a Celeb-Am tournament at the club. Rosalind remained a social member until 2008.

A resident at Castle View since 2012, Rosalind trained at St Thomas’ Hospital in London as a nurse. In later life she did voluntary work with her husband for Dorset Blind Association, helping to take people out on outings.

Rosalind enjoys Scrabble and word games and is a particular fan of Alfie, Castle View’s adopted dog.

Asked for the secret of her longevity, Rosalind said: “I’ve always tried to stay active and enjoyed golf, walking and the fresh air.”

Sarah Harper, Home Manager, said: “Rosalind is a very popular resident and marvellous for her age.

“Everyone had a lovely time at the tea party, celebrating Rosalind’s 101^st birthday and listening to a range of popular songs from The Land Girls. It was a very happy occasion.”