Maurice's message from Queen

Maurice Saunders, marked his special birthday as a centenarian at Icknield Court care home in Princes Risborough.

Having grown up in High Wycombe, Maurice settled in Naphill and moved to Icknield Court, run by local charity and care provider, The Fremantle Trust, nearly three and a half years ago.

Maurice was unable to actively serve in the Second World War for health reasons, but worked as a staff officer driver in the Military Police.

Following this time, he met Shap, whom he later married, and they were together until she sadly passed away in 1987.

Maurice found it difficult to settle after the war and a chance encounter with Lucian Ercolani, the name behind the iconic furniture brand, led to Maurice working for Ercol until his retirement.

With a strong community network, having been a member of the swimming club and played the cornet in the Ercol band, many of Maurice’s friends visit him regularly at Icknield Court.

During his lifetime Maurice has seen significant changes, among the biggest being in aviation, having enjoyed widespread travel to America, Canada and Europe.

Maurice says he is very happy at Icknield Court and particularly values the kindness of the team, with whom he shares a great relationship.

Sheila Gabbott, leisure and lifestyle organiser at Icknield Court, said: “Maurice is a very popular resident with many a story to tell. We were thrilled to be able to arrange a party for his friends and members of the team here to celebrate his special day, having received an honorary message from her Majesty The Queen.”

Founded in 1992, The Fremantle Trust is a registered charity providing first class care and support services that enhance quality of life for older people and adults with a learning disability.

The trust’s services include care homes, day care and supported living schemes in 58 locations across Buckinghamshire, Berkshire, Milton Keynes, Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and North London. It is committed to safeguarding the independence, rights and lifestyle of every individual and believes that those who use its services should be genuinely consulted and fully respected.

The trust has 793 registered care beds and supports the individual lifestyle choices of almost 2,000 residents, tenants and people attending day care services.