A woman who crossed the Atlantic Ocean to make Ipswich her home has celebrated her 100th birthday. 

Friends and family poured into Alice Flowers’ house on Wednesday, all of them eager to share this special birthday with her.  

“I came downstairs in the morning, and I saw all the balloons!” laughed Mrs Flowers. 

She has lived in her Gipping home for the past 65 years, ever since she travelled to the UK from Jamaica to join her husband, Jonathan.  

“It was a bit scary, to come to a new country,” said Mrs Flowers. “But I soon realised that the people were alright. The only thing that bothered me was the snow!” 

Ipswich Star: Alice Flowers has called Ipswich home since 1958. Image: Charlotte BondAlice Flowers has called Ipswich home since 1958. Image: Charlotte Bond (Image: Charlotte Bond)

Ipswich Star: Alice Flowers was delighted to receive a birthday card from the newly crowned King Charles III. Image: Charlotte BondAlice Flowers was delighted to receive a birthday card from the newly crowned King Charles III. Image: Charlotte Bond (Image: Charlotte Bond)

Mrs Flowers arrived in Ipswich in 1958. By this time, she was already a mother several times over: Remford, Lizzie, Ralph, Kachleen, Mary, Kenneth, Cecil and Eric were all born in Jamaica. Tragically, she had also lost three other children. 

When she arrived in the UK, Mr and Mrs Flowers added four more children to their brood: David, Kelvin, Jennifer and Lynnette are all Ipswich, born and bred. 

“My mother always told us, some families are blessed with money,” said Jennifer. “But we are lucky, for ours is blessed with children.” 

Ipswich Star: Alice Flowers pictured beside her sprawling family tree. Image: Charlotte BondAlice Flowers pictured beside her sprawling family tree. Image: Charlotte Bond (Image: Charlotte Bond)

Mrs Flowers worked a host of different jobs, including at the printing press in Portman Road, the Crane factory in Nacton Road, and a chicken factory in Eye. 

However, most people will know her for being a warm, loving presence for anyone in her community who was in need. 

“Our door was always open,” said Jennifer. “Everyone loves her. She was always so kind and would support anyone she could, whenever she could.” 

Mrs Flowers, who was born on May 17 1923, credits her long and happy life with her strong Christian faith.  

“I give thanks and praise for every moment God has given me,” said Mrs Flowers. “I hope and pray he gives me many more.”