Big birthday for Bob | Taranaki News | Local News in Taranaki

Stratford local, Bob Morrison, celebrated his 90th birthday yesterday and more than 60 family members will gather this Saturday for a special afternoon tea at the family farm to mark the occasion.

Bob's son is flying from Australia especially for the event and his siblings (he has six and five are coming to the party) are making the trip to Stratford to share in his special day.

High on the party agenda will be reminiscing about the great memories Bob has of growing up in Taranaki.

Stratford Press reporter Kylie Malin got a sneak preview of some of his favourites when she paid him a visit at Marire Rest Home to wish him a happy birthday.

"There were a dozen or so houses in the neighbourhood when I was young and everybody knew everybody and we were all equal to one another. I used to sleep on my neighbour's porch during the summer afternoons and we would often play cricket, that's how my nose got bent!" he said.

Bob served in World War II and on arriving home, went back to his first love, farming.

"I bought the family farm in 1953 and lived there till I moved to Marire.

"I got married in 1954 and we had 40 happy years together. I enjoyed playing bowls and was a member of the Avon Bowling Club for 38 years.

"I also really like singing and had many, many years with the Savage Club."

Bob has four children and nine grandchildren and they will be among those celebrating with him on Saturday.

When asked what he was looking forward to the most about his party, Bob was quick to answer, 'Spending time with my family. They are a good family, a great family'!

Happy Birthday Bob from the Stratford Press!