Kingsclere’s eldest resident Maisie Phenix celebrates 105th birthday at Kingsclere Community Library

Kingsclere’s eldest resident celebrated her 105th birthday earlier this month at a special party surrounded by her friends.

Maisie Phenix turned 105 on Saturday, November 11, and marked this incredible milestone with a gathering of 20 of her oldest friends at the Kingsclere Community Library on George Street.

Mrs Phenix lives just a few doors down from the library, and as an avid reader she has been using it since she first moved to Kingsclere in 1945.

Kingsclere Community Library trustee Sarah Davis said: “She was thrilled to have a party at the library and her daughter Penny came over from Canada with her partner and they played the violin and the guitar.

“It was absolutely wonderful.

“She was rather overcome when we sang happy birthday.”

As well as the music, Mrs Phenix and her party guests enjoyed some birthday cake accompanied by tea and coffee.

The library has recently acquired a new collection of young adult books and graphic novels to inspire younger readers to visit.

Library opening hours are Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1pm to 5.30pm, and Saturdays, 10am to 1pm.

Mrs Davis said: “We are always keen to sign up new members and on the lookout for new volunteers.

“To contact us, please email kingsclerelibrary@gmail.com or phone the library during opening hours on (01635) 297464.”