Two care home residents celebrate 100th birthdays in same week

Colin Frost and Frank Lowe, residents at April Park Care Home in Eckington, both reached the landmark age in the same week at the end of May.

The care home organised a joint party for the pair as they marked the special occasion surrounded by family and friends.

A spokesperson for the care home said that Colin is a gentleman who ‘says it as it is’ and Frank is ‘very laid back’.

Mr Lowe was born in Mosborough and went to school in the village.

He had a number of jobs after leaving school including at Renishaw Colliery.

On the outbreak of the Second World War he joined the RAF.

His daughter-in-law, Janet Lowe, said: “When asked why the RAF he always said he couldn’t swim so didn’t fancy the Navy and Army boots were too heavy!”

He rose to the rank of Leading Aircraftman and was Lead Mechanic for a large group of Lancaster Bombers.

While still in the RAF he married his late wife Annie West, from Eckington, and they spent their whole married life in the town. They had two children, Hazel and Geoffrey, and subsequently three grandchildren, Joy, Gareth and Richard.

Mr Lowe has been heavily involved in fundraising in Eckington and organising trips for the over 60s club.

Mr Frost was born in Killamarsh and joined the Army in May 1938 for six years.

He has two brothers and two sisters.

He married his wife Freda in January 1942.

Mr Frost enjoyed going fishing, watching Chesterfield FC home and away and spending time at his allotment.