An amazing 100-year old grandmother with 89 grandchildren says happiness is key to longevity.
Jo Allan, who has 12 children, 37 grandchildren, 50 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren, was surrounded by family and honoured for her war service as she celebrated her landmark birthday.
Jo, from Middlesbrough, Teesside, is one of the UK’s oldest residents and was one of thousands of female workers who worked at a munitions factory during the Second World War.
She was based in Aycliffe, County Durham. Her work involved checking for bullets that had faults.
Jo Allan (pictured left, as a young woman, and right, aged 100), who has 12 children, 37 grandchildren, 50 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren, was surrounded by family and honoured for her war service as she celebrated her landmark birthday
Jo, from Middlesbrough in Teesside (pictured with family members), is one the UK’s most senior residents. She was also one of many women workers at a Munitions Factory during World War 2.
Andy Preston, Middlesbrough’s mayor, called in surprise to present a presentation for the council during a small gathering of her family on her 100th Birthday.
Jo was given a brooch, certificate, and recognition that officially recognised her as Aycliffe Angel. It also thanked her for her contributions to Europe’s victory.
Jo replied to Jo when she was asked about her secret for a long, healthy life.
Preston stated that the women had been uncelebrated for far too long and not recognized. However, this article is now being written to tell the story of the support Jo gave the soldiers fighting.
“I am certain that the extraordinary work Jo did saved many lives. “It’s high time that we acknowledge all Aycliffe Angels who helped to change European history.
Jo, (pictured), was a vital part of the Aycliffe, County Durham job. She checked for bullets with flaws
Jo had intended to be with her whole family to celebrate her centenary, but Covid worries prevented Jo from having a party. Jo was still very happy on Jo’s big day.
A birthday card was sent by Her Majesty to her, as well as video messages and cards from extended family from Australia, USA, Canada and Australia.
Jo, mother-of-12 was married for 61 years to Dave before he died in 2005 at the age of 82.
Eight daughters were born to them: Pauline, Joan and Judith; Mary, Catherine and Steph. They also had sons Doug, Bernard and Gerard.
The oldest of her children is now 77 and the youngest is five months.
Jo, Mother-of-12 Jo (pictured together with some relatives), was married to Dave for 61+ years. He died at 82 in 2005.
Jo requested that friends and relatives donate to Our Hospitals Charity to support the Stroke Unit at James Cook University Hospital. Dave was taken care of there before Jo passed away.
A total of £1,500 has been donated so far and despite a health scare two years ago, Jo is still going strong at her care home in Linthorpe on the outskirts of the town.
She lived in the North East only once, when Dave was a wireless operator at RAF Valley and an air gunner.
After getting married, the couple lived in Anglesey, Wales. They then briefly lived in Hereford until the end.
Pauline, Pauline’s youngest daughter, stated that “Mum was always the most loving and interesting mother. She is always on the move and puts her children first.
Andy Preston from Middlesbrough called in unexpectedly to surprise the council at a small celebration for her 100th birthday.
My earliest memories of Mum are from 1947. I was on a walking trip and came home to see her. Her arms and hands were covered in red.
“I was scared, but it turned out that she was dying to get old curtains from someone for our new home.”
Doug, his youngest son, paid tribute and stated that his mother had not only given birth to 12 children but also returned to full-time employment until her retirement age of 65.
“Her favorite joke was that she knew exactly what she was doing when she gave birth to so many children. This ensured that she would have enough carer as she grew older.
“She complains often that Covid prevents her from taking a vacation, which she may not be able to afford due to the fact she doesn’t have as many years.