County Durham teacher celebrated 100th birthday at care home

As Dulcie Thirling turned 100 today (Friday, April 17), her family shared the story of her life as she marked the milestone at Sandringham Care Home in Bishop Auckland, where she has lived for the past four years.

Dulcie was born on April 17, 1926, at The Hare and Greyhounds pub in Bowburn. She grew up there with her parents, sisters and brother.

Former Bishop Auckland teacher Dulcie Thirling, 100 (Image: PROVIDED)

She later married the love of her life, Charles Thirling. Dulcie went on to become a school teacher and worked at Wolsingham Junior School, near Bishop Auckland, until she retired at the age of 55.

Her family said the couple enjoyed many happy years together after retirement. They loved walking and often travelled to the Lake District with their caravan, spending weeks there at a time.

Sandringham Care Home has celebrated resident Dulcie Thirling’s 100th birthday (Image: PROVIDED)

Sandringham Care Home has celebrated resident Dulcie Thirling’s 100th birthday (Image: PROVIDED)

Dulcie and Charles lived in Howden le Wear for more than 60 years. Sadly, Charles died more than 20 years ago.

For the last four years Dulcie has lived at Sandringham Care Home in Bishop Auckland, where her family say she has been very well cared for.

Sandringham Care Home has celebrated resident Dulcie Thirling’s 100th birthday (Image: PROVIDED)

They said the staff at the home have looked after her wonderfully and helped make her 100th birthday a special occasion.