City to mark 100th birthday with fellow centenarians

Portsmouth is set to celebrate a century since it was first made a city alongside fellow centenarians.

The south-coast city's council is inviting local residents who are turning 100 this year to help mark the milestone at a special tea party in September.

The event will bring together residents who were born in 1926 to "recognise their lives, stories, and contribution to the city across a century of change", the authority said.

Steve Pitt, the council's leader, urged people to "spread the word" so people "don't miss the chance to be part of this special celebration".

"This is a great opportunity to celebrate the people who have lived through the same hundred years that Portsmouth has grown and thrived as a city," he said.

"The tea party will be a celebration of their lives, their memories and their place in Portsmouth's story."

Portsmouth City Council says the event, which is being held on 28 September will only be open to people born or currently living in the city.

Anyone wishing to register interest on behalf of a centenarian should contact the council by the end of June, a council spokesperson says.

Additionally, as part of the centenary celebrations, the council said it would also be sending out birthday cards to every resident turning 100 in 2026.

"To make sure no one is missed, residents or their families, are encouraged to contact the council if they know someone reaching this milestone," the authority added.

Portsmouth, which is closely associated with the Royal Navy, had been a town for more than 700 years before it was officially made a city by King George V in 1926.

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