One of Deal’s oldest residents, Maurice Churchward, celebrated his 101st birthday on 25 March 2021. His 100th birthday celebrations last year had to be put on hold due to Covid-19 and he was forced to celebrate his landmark birthday alone. Determined that Maurice’s 101st birthday would be celebrated in style this year, his family approached me to ask if I could help.
Learning that Maurice is a retired Royal Marine and active Member of the Royal Marines Association, my team and I approached Conservative Dover District Councillor and Armed Forces Champion, Oliver Richardson, for assistance in creating a very special day for Maurice. The resulting celebration was a complete surprise for Maurice; watching from his balcony, he enjoyed a visit from a former Royal Marine trumpeter playing Happy Birthday and a former Black Watch guardsman playing the bagpipes. Friends from the Royal Marines Association and St Saviour’s Church delivered presents and cards before a birthday cake and card were delivered by Dover District Council.
I was honoured to deliver a personal letter to Maurice and also spoke to him to wish him a Happy Birthday. And I was pleased to be able to speak to Maurice to share my congratulations and best wishes on his 101st Birthday.
Maurice served his country as a Royal Marine in World War 2 and afterwards as a Metropolitan Policeman. It was only fitting that his special birthday be honoured.
I would like to thank Dover District Council, the Royal Marines Association and Walmer Parish Churches for helping to arrange such a splendid celebration for Maurice’s special day.