Constance Pullom, who played the piano in an RAF band during World War II, has celebrated her 105th birthday at Ivybank House Care Home in Bath, Somerset. Surrounded by family, friends, and the care team, Constance marked this extraordinary milestone with her birthday card from King Charles and Queen Camilla taking pride of place.
Early Life and Musical Talent
Born in Southampton in 1921, Constance showed musical promise from an early age, learning the piano from the age of three. A gifted student, she earned a scholarship to her local grammar school. After the outbreak of war, she joined the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF), working in accounts and excelling in her training, where she came first twice in her qualifying course.
War Service and Music
Music remained central to Constance’s life during the war as she played the piano in an RAF band. She also contributed to the war effort through factory work.
Post-War Life and Adventures
After the war, Constance married her husband David in 1951. The couple lived in many locations including Southampton, Reading, Cheltenham, Winchcombe, Bristol, and Bath. Always keen for new experiences, Constance pursued acting with a travelling theatre company and later explored the world, including crossing America by Greyhound bus. At 30, she even took up motorbike riding, yet never learned to drive a car.
Musical Legacy
For nearly three decades, Constance played the piano for various choirs in Paulton as well as the Salvation Army in Midsomer Norton. Today, she still plays her keyboard each morning at Ivybank House, often striking up “Happy Birthday” with the cheerful reminder that “it’s always someone’s birthday somewhere in the world.”
Reflections on a Long Life
Reflecting on her 105th birthday, Constance said: “I believe the secret to a long life is to ‘keep on keeping on’ and to ‘stay interested in everything’. Keeping active in both mind and body is so important. I still make sure each day brings something new, whether through the activities or getting out in the beautiful gardens here. It was wonderful to celebrate my birthday with all those who are special to me, and I’m so grateful to the caring team here at Ivybank House for making the day so wonderful.”
Zendrel Moore, home manager at Ivybank House, added: “It has been an absolute privilege to celebrate this incredible milestone with Constance and her friends and family. Constance is at the heart of our Ivybank community. Her enthusiasm for life and her music brighten everyone’s day—her morning piano sessions are something we all look forward to, and she’s always happy to take requests.”
