Elizabeth’s 66 years living in same street (From Keighley News)

Elizabeth’s 66 years living in same street

5:00pm Friday 3rd July 2009

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A 92-year-old great-great-grandmother has received a special gift from her housing landlord after clocking up 66 years in the same property.

Riverside Pennine housing company presented Elizabeth Oakden, of Elizabeth Street in Keighley, with flowers and chocolate.

During her decades in the property she has listened to the end of the Second World War, raised a five-generation family and seen technology transform everything.

Mrs Oakden said: “The properties have not actually changed that much around here though the parkland has now been partly built on in the area.

“Also I used to know all my neighbours but obviously as the years go by people pass away or move, but I still know a few. I don’t get out as much these days so I don’t see the comings and goings as much.

“I was really happy when I got this bungalow as I’d lived in just one room when I arrived in Keighley and then with my mother-in-law after I married.

“From day one though I loved it around here and I’m glad I’ve been lucky enough to stay in the same place for so long.”

Mrs Oakden moved to Keighley from Grimsby to work when she was 14 years old, and loved it so much she has never left.

She moved into her current property in June 1943, gave birth to her daughter Anne – now 66 – and now has three grandchildren, five great-grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren, who all live just a few miles apart in the town.

Mrs Oakden said: “I have raised a beautiful family and had the best years of my life here. I’m delighted to be the longest-serving tenant on Riverside’s books.”

Martin Rose, the service delivery officer for Riverside Pennine, said: “A lot of things have changed in the world since Elizabeth took residency in this home, but one thing has stayed constant – Elizabeth herself. Elizabeth is a lovely lady and has a fantastic family around her. You can certainly see why she has stayed put so long. The property is in a fantastic location with the most beautiful scenery all around with a real community atmosphere.

“What more could anyone want?”

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