WHEN ex-Royal Marine Stanley Woolley marked his 100th birthday at Ivy Gate Lodge, little did anyone expect the extraordinary outpouring of love and admiration that would follow. 

Initially, the care home had set a simple goal:- collect 100 cards from the community to honour Stan’s milestone. However, news of the celebration quickly spread, 1st through broadcasts on BBC Radio Merseyside and Mighty Radio, and then across social media, capturing the attention of both local residents and supporters far beyond Southport.

By the time his birthday arrived, Stan had received an astonishing 1,499 cards, a testament to the deep affection and respect the community holds for him. 

To mark the occasion, Ivy Gate Lodge hosted a grand party, welcoming 98 visitors. Among them were ex-veterans and serving military personnel, family, friends, and notable local figures, including Serena Silcock-Prince, President of RBL Southport, Andrew Brown from Stand Up for Southport, Peter Oliver OBE, HM Lord Lieutenant, Sean Connolly from Mighty Radio, and local singer Rachel Rose. The event also saw the support of the Southport Hesketh Round Table 1199, with Marc Foreman attending.

Community generosity extended to local businesses, too. Grill House Shawarma donated pizzas for the celebration, and Co-op presented Stan with a lovingly prepared hamper. In the week leading up to the big day, local schools, including Stanley High, Meols Cop High School, Kinder World Nursery, and Southport College, visited Stan, bringing gifts and additional cards to contribute to the overwhelming tally.

Reflecting on the event, Stan’s niece, Jackie Ryan, shared:- "We are overwhelmed with the amount of support Stan has received from the local community, and we couldn't have wished for a better turn out for him. We can't thank the home enough for what they have done."

Home Manager of Ivy Gate Lodge Amy Nwanorue added:- "We couldn't have asked for a better celebration for this true gentleman, the support for Stan has been unreal. We really didn't expect it to get as big as it has. Seeing all the local veterans and community members celebrate with him was simply incredible. Thank you to everyone who sent cards, presents, and joined us to make Stan’s 100th birthday truly unforgettable."

Stan’s milestone not only honours a remarkable life of courage and service but also highlights the extraordinary community spirit in Southport. Ivy Gate Lodge and Stan’s family extend heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made the centenary celebration a day to remember.