A YORK nursing home put in a bumper order for birthday candles this week as it celebrated the lives of its two most senior residents.

Friends and relatives of Laurie Barnard, who will turn 104 on Friday, and Annie Worcester, who was 102 on Sunday, gathered at Westminster Nursing Home in Osbaldwick to cheer the two centenarians.

The home was decorated for a party, a special buffet was laid on and everyone got into the spirit for the celebration.

And Secret Garden, a florist on Bishopthorpe Road, made a special floral presentation to the two birthday girls.

Annie, who was born in York, moved to Essex when she got married and returned to the city after spending a year in New Zealand living with her daughter.

Laurie, who was born in Leeds, went to Priory School in York and went on to work as a stenographer in the government offices.

She spent around 26 years travelling around with her husband's job before settling back in the city.

Ian Moorhouse, activities co-ordinator at the home, said both women were an inspiration to everyone who met them.

He said that Laurie is even going to visit Derwent Junior School to show the children her photographs and talk about her life.

He said: "Laurie is amazing for her age, she does crosswords, puzzles, teasers and she plays Scrabble.

"She writes her own letters, she loves handwriting.

"Annie still loves to sing along with the best of them, she still enjoys playing bingo and eating her fish and chips."

Updated: 08:52 Wednesday, October 10, 2001