A former electrical engineer and prominent figure in local government in Dorset has celebrated his 100th birthday.
Alan Havelock was the centre of attention as friends and family joined him at Colten Care’s Kingfishers care home in New Milton.
Among the highlights of the day was a live performance of one of Alan’s favourite pieces of music.
Companionship Team member Beverly McKeown sang ‘O mio babbino caro’ from the comic opera Gianni Schicchi by Giacomo Puccini, delighting host and guests with her solo.
Born in 1925 and raised on the Isle of Wight, Alan was an only child and just in his teens when the Second World War broke out.
His parents ran a successful coach company but were left bankrupt when the business was requisitioned by the Ministry of Defence.
The sudden change meant Alan had to switch schools but despite the setbacks, he persevered and earned his leaving qualification at the age of 17.
He went on to study electrical engineering before joining the Royal Air Force. He also spent eight years in Germany on army service before embarking on a successful career in the Ministry of Technology.
Gaining successive promotions, he worked in the Thatcher government, meeting the then Prime Minister on several occasions and describing their professional relationship as ‘often challenging’. In time, he chose to leave government service and run his own business.
After retiring at age 62, he was invited to join Christchurch Council and went on to serve as a Dorset County Councillor for 16 years, contributing his experience and energy to the local community before stepping down in 2009.
Guests at Alan’s party included Colten Care founder John Colwell who was invited to open the celebration with words of congratulations.
Alan, who has lived at Kingfishers for nearly four years, also spoke, giving a heartfelt thank-you to all at the home who look after him. He said he was full of gratitude at being part of the ‘Kingfishers family’.
Companionship Team Leader Rose Arcellana said: “Alan has remained active, engaged and forward-looking. He keeps a daily eye on politics, loves to play whist, attends talks and is always ready to share his ideas and suggestions for new activities. His sharp mind, love of discussion and enduring energy for life continues to inspire.”
Rose added: “My colleague Bev gave an incredible performance of ‘O mio babbino caro’. It was a moment so moving it gave everyone goosebumps. We followed that with the cake-cutting ceremony and a joyful chorus of Happy Birthday to complete the celebration.”
