How old are you and how long have you lived in Alton?

I am 84 and have lived in Alton for 62 years.

What made you choose Alton?

At the age of 12, my family moved to Binsted and I met my future husband at Amery Hill School when I was only 12½ years old. After ten years of courting, we got married at the age of 22 and that is when we moved to Alton. I haven’t left since. I have lived in three different houses and spent 44 happy years in my current home.

What do you like most about Alton?

I find Alton a very friendly town, but having gone to school here I do know a lot of people, which helps. However, even if I hadn’t grown up in Alton, I think I would still consider it a lovely place.

Tell me a little bit about your favourite time in your life.

The best thing that ever happened to me was becoming a mother. I have always loved children and worked as a lunchtime supervisory assistant at Wootey Infant School for 21 years.

Because of this love for children, my greatest joy has been as a mother and grandmother. I am lucky enough to have two children and three grandchildren, who I helped look after when they were growing up.

I have loved every moment spent with them and still do. They have all stayed in Hampshire and I am very proud of each of them. I would say my favourite times in life are those spent with them.

What are your hopes and dreams for the future?

Since my husband died four years ago I have stopped dreaming for things in the future because we did everything together and I miss him every day.

However, I do hope to stay well so I can enjoy the time I spend with the rest of my family and I do hope to be able to continue living in my own home, which holds lots of happy memories for me.

For further information about the Anna Chaplaincy, call Kate Powell on 07539 026546.