As one of the first to receive a 100th birthday card from King Charles III following his Coronation, it's fair to say that Bob Turner has seen some changes in his time.
A life-long Teesside resident, Bob celebrated his 100th birthday in style on Friday, May 19, receiving his special card from King Charles III and Queen Camilla and having his local MP and councillor drop by with a celebratory cake.
The centenarian, originally from Grangetown, has been a witness to the ever-changing world, having lived in his Teesville home for over six decades alongside his wife, Vera, who is 98-years-old.
Bob's life journey began when he took over his father's coal business, back in the days when the industry heavily relied on horses and carts.
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Later, he ventured into establishing Turner's of Grangetown taxis, which became renowned for offering transportation services for special occasions like weddings.
The distinguished taxi firm once had the honour of provided urgent maternity transportation to the former Middlesbrough FC player and England Assistant Manager, Harold Shepherdson, and his wife who was expecting.
This is not the first time that Bob has received a card from the royal family. On their 75th wedding anniversary in December, both Bob and Vera were graced with a special card to commemorate the milestone occasion.
To mark Bob's remarkable milestone, Jacob Young, the Conservative Member of Parliament for Redcar, and Paul Salvin, Conservative Councillor for Normanby, paid a visit to the Turner residence to personally extend their warm wishes and hear some of the stories from Bob’s life.
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Gloriously decorated, the family's cake featured a decorative coalman as a testament to Bob's working days.
Upon meeting Bob, Vera, and their daughter Janet on the momentous day, Jacob Young said: “It was lovely to meet Bob, Vera and Janet on this very special day.
“It is fascinating to hear Bob tell me about his life, his work in the coal business, taxis and beyond. It's amazing to be told of a world quite different to the one we inhabit today, and yet which still prevails in living memory - it really is something very special.
“I was honoured to meet Bob, Vera and Janet and to bring along a birthday cake, although, to be honest, mine was nothing compared to the one Bob's family had on display!
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“I would like to thank the family for their generous hospitality and to wish Bob a very happy 100th birthday. And as I said to Vera, I'd love to come back in two years’ time for her own 100th!”
Bob, 100, said: “I don't really know what to say except just a big thank you.”
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