Lord Mayor of Leeds meets 108 year old Elsie

The Lord Mayor of Leeds, Cllr Abigail Marshall Katung, paid a special visit today to one of Leeds’s oldest residents, Elsie Pearman. The visit took place at Dyneley House Care home, where Elsie has been living since May 2023. Up until moving to Dyneley House, Elsie lived independently in her own home.

Born in 1916, Elsie has witnessed over a century of history, experiencing significant events and societal changes, from word wars, servicing in the Royal Navy under the Red Cross in World War II, to the digital age. Having been born in 1916, Elsie has lived under five British monarchs: King George V, King Edward VIII, King George VI, Queen Elizabeth II, and now King Charles III.

During the visit, the Lord Mayor spent time with Elsie discussing her life experiences and sharing her secret to life. “Everything in moderation”!

Commenting on the visit, the Lord Mayor said she had a wonderful time listening to stories about Elsie’s life and would welcome the opportunity to visit Dyneley House again.

Laura Clark, the manager of Dyneley House added, “We are thrilled to have the Lord Mayor visit us today and recognise Elsie's incredible life. She is a beloved member of our home and today has given us a lovely reason to celebrate with Elsie. Both staff and residents have thoroughly enjoyed the visit.”

The visit underscores the city’s commitment to acknowledging and celebrating its older population, highlighting the importance of community and respect for those who have contributed to Leeds’s rich history. The city’s ambition is for Leeds to be the best city to grow old in and a place where people age well.