Obituary: One of Norfolk's oldest people has died at 105

Anita Twine moved to north Norfolk with her late husband Percy after enjoying many a holiday there together. 

Relocating from Lincolnshire, they bought a home in Holkham, near Wells, where they both enjoyed volunteering at Holkham Hall. 

It was a far cry from where she had lived her early life in Southfields, London. 

Anita Twine has died aged 105 (Image: Submitted) Educated at Fulham County School, she recalled her sister Dorothy passing her exams with flying colours and receiving a free school place. 

But her father Oscar, a headteacher, had to pay her school fees and she often joked that her sister had “inherited the brains”. 

Following school, Anita worked at Barclays Bank on the city's Canon Street during the Blitz. 

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She married Percy during the Second World War after his 6ft 2 frame “caught her eye”. Together they moved to Wimbledon where their only son, Douglas, was born. 

Percy's work took the family around the country, while Anita worked as a hospital receptionist. 

After his death, she adopted a retired racing greyhound and moved to Wells to be closer to her circle of friends.  

Anita Twine has died aged 105 (Image: Submitted) Here she became active in the RNLI and various social groups. 

She continued to fundraise well into her 90s and was honoured with a party from the lifeboat’s members to thank her for her efforts. 

Aged 101, she moved into a care home in Wells before moving to Thorp House nursing home in Griston, near Watton.  

Activities coordinator Marcia Hughes said: “Anita was adored. 

“When she first came to the home, she was frail and reluctant to take part in anything. But within a few months we had her joining in.  

“I thought we might be lucky to see her 102nd birthday with her – we certainly never thought we would celebrate her 105th. 

“She was a true legend who will be very sadly missed.” 

Anita always claimed that her tips for living a long life were swimming, a gin and tonic and “doing the odd naughty thing”.   

She died on March 17, aged 105. The home will be holding a celebration of life ceremony with the RNLI at a date to be confirmed. 

The event will include her favourite gin tipples and a rose named With Courage - launched for the RNLI’s 200th anniversary - will be planted at Thorp House in her memory. 

Anita Twine has died aged 105 (Image: Submitted)

A LITERARY TRIBUTE 

Jess Curtis, RNLI community engagement officer, wrote a poem in memory of the “wonderful" Anita. 

She said: “She truly was an inspiration and I feel honoured that we got to meet her.” 

A poem 

A life of kindness, brave and true, 
Anita Twine, we honour you. 
At 105, your journey ends, 
But in our hearts, your love transcends. 

For years you gave, with heart so wide, 
To Wells RNLI, you stood with pride. 
Well into your 90s, you’d raise the call, 
Helping others, you gave your all. 

From London’s streets to Norfolk’s shore, 
Your steps were steady, evermore. 
With Percy by your side, love strong, 
Together, you both sang life’s song. 

In Wells you found your final place, 
Where laughter filled each cherished space. 
With gin in hand and joy to share, 
You spread your warmth, beyond compare. 

A greyhound by your side, you thrived, 
In every season, you survived. 
You shared your life, your heart so free, 
A living lesson for all to see. 

Your 100th year, a celebration grand, 
Surrounded by love, you took a stand. 
And though you're gone, your legacy stays, 
In every life you touched, always. 

At Thorp House, you were adored, 
Where love and care you long implored. 
The staff, your friends, so full of cheer, 
Held you close and kept you near. 

Now rest, Anita, your work is done, 
Your kindness woven, like the sun. 
The waves will carry your name with pride, 
And in our hearts, you’ll still reside.