Alfred the joiner still active at 100
Thornham Magna, Suffolk. Alfred Mowle who celebrated his 100th Birthday of Christmas Eve
An active north Suffolk man who has lived in the same village all his life has described himself as “contented” after reaching the grand old age of 100.
Alfred Mowle received a card from the Queen for reaching the three-figure milestone; a token which takes pride of place in the thatched cottage he shares with his wife, Alma, in Thornham Magna.
Well-known Mr Mowle, who worked as a joiner until he was in his 80s, can still be spotted pottering about his garden or painting the house, and attends church in Eye every Sunday.
A father of one, a grandfather of two and a great-grandfather of three, the former sole trader celebrated becoming a centenarian on Christmas Eve by enjoying afternoon tea with his family.
Described by family members as being extremely determined and boasting a good sense of humour, Mr Mowle said: “I’ve still got my marbles.”
Having fallen in love with Alma, a fellow Thornham native, Mr Mowle has lived with his wife in the house she was born in since the day of their wedding at Stoke Ash Church in 1946.
Mr Mowle had not long returned from army service at that point, having used his carpentry skills to help construct kitchens and other facilities in prisoner-war-camps for German captives based in Egypt.
His joinery job, meanwhile, took him all over Suffolk, and the craftsman’s handiwork can be seen on various properties.
Asked to divulge the secret to his longevity, Mr Mowle - who said he has survived falling off a few ladders in his time - emphasised the importance of working hard, having a healthy diet, and maintaining an unyielding religious faith. He added: “I’m contented knowing the end of the journey is nearly there.”
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Saturday 25 May 2013
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