Barton woman Pam McKie celebrates 100th birthday

A FORMER longstanding school matron and charity shop volunteer is celebrating her 100th birthday today (Friday).

Pauline Pamela McKie, known to friends as Pam, was born in Withernsea, near Hull, on 22nd March 1924, and has always been extremely proud of her Yorkshire roots.

After the Second World War at the age of 22, she joined the Wrens and spent five years in her beloved Padstow, Cornwall, where she was promoted to petty officer.

She was then stationed in Scotland where she met her future husband Harry who was undertaking his National Service. She said it was love at first sight as their eyes met over a map in the weather station.

The couple were married in 1952 and moved to London where they spent 20 happy years, and their children Russell and Alison were born.

In 1972 the family moved to Barton when Harry became head at Highcliffe Comprehensive School. Pam joined Durlston Court School as matron which was a boarding school at that time. She stayed for 13 years.

The couple were well known for hosting parties for friends and colleagues at their home, and even held Alison and her husband Steve’s wedding reception in their garden.

The pair shared a love of amateur dramatics and were joint vice-presidents of the Milton Music Society from 1983 to 1999, with Pam supporting Harry with his role as secretary and often cast member.

After their retirement in 1987 Pam and Harry enjoyed gardening and holidays in Spain. Two granddaughters, Laura and Faye, kept them busy with regular trips to Manchester.

Pam was a volunteer at Oakhaven Hospice shop in New Milton for more than 15 years and regularly took part in their fundraising fashion shows.

She still loves catching up with friends and going to Barton Cliff top for a walk and the chance to chat with people.