Bromyard care home resident receives thank you from King Charles

Tessa Preece, 97, of Froome Bank, in Bromyard, is a former school secretary, and worked in the Air Ministry in Worcester in World War Two.

She often enjoys writing poems and was compelled to write one after Queen Elizabeth's death in September.

With Ms Preece being the same age as the Queen, she feels that she shared a lot of her journey with her and has vivid memories of the coronation on a tiny television, said a spokesperson from the care home.

Tessa's poem to mark the passing of Queen Elizabeth II

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Froome Bank's activity champion, Karen Edwards, often helps Ms Preece, who has been at the home for two years, with her poetry.

"I was overwhelmed when I read it and, without anyone knowing, I sent the card to King Charles," said Ms Edwards.

Ms Preece was made up when she received a card from his royal highness in the post and said that it is the most exciting thing that has happened to her.

In the card, the King thanked her for the "enormously comforting" words of support.

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The poem in full reads as follows:

God Bless the Queen,

In duty she gave all,

Ever Smiling, ever gracious,

So young to get the call.

Some hidden hand was there to guide her,

To see her through life's trials.

With dignity she reigned

In her own imitable style.

Now she rests in peace,

Her work on earth is done.

Borne aloft by Seraphim,

Safe in heaven's harbour,

Cradled in the presence of the holy one.

Froome Bank care home, which is operated by Shaw healthcare, is a short walk from the centre of Bromyard and provides residential care for 18 people.