SSAFA and Sister Force unite to celebrate Second World War veteran’s 104th birthday

02 November 2026

A Second World War veteran who worked on Winston Churchill's War Room staff during WWII celebrated her 104th birthday in style at Tranmere Rovers’ Remembrance match, as local Armed Forces charities came together to recognise her remarkable milestone and champion the often-overlooked contribution of female veterans.

Olwen Cantlay was a special guest at Prenton Park on Saturday 31 October, where Tranmere Rovers defeated Cheltenham Town 3–1, providing the perfect birthday present.

The Women's Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF) veteran received a visit from first-team players Luke McGee, David Kamara and Coniah Boyce-Clarke, who listened to her wartime memories and presented her with a personalised football shirt bearing the words ‘Olly 104’.

The visit was arranged through Tranmere Rovers in the Community’s Hidden Voices programme, which works closely with Sister Force Female Veterans Support Group, founded by Debs Mills-Burns. The initiative aims to reduce social isolation among female veterans, helping them build friendships, connect with their communities and ensure their experiences and contributions are recognised.

SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, was delighted to support the birthday celebrations, with its Cheshire branch contributing towards catering and refreshments.

SSAFA Cheshire volunteer Val Dalgliesh also joined Olwen to present flowers and a birthday card on behalf of the branch.

Among those attending was Peter Oliver OBE, His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Merseyside and President of SSAFA Merseyside.

The occasion highlighted the importance of collaboration between Armed Forces charities and community organisations, bringing together SSAFA, Sister Force and Tranmere Rovers in the Community around a shared commitment to recognising and supporting veterans.

While Remembrance provides an opportunity to honour those who served, initiatives such as Hidden Voices also recognise the importance of supporting veterans today, particularly women whose wartime contributions have not always received the attention they deserve.

For Olwen, it was a birthday to remember. For the organisations involved, it was a reminder that recognition, friendship and a sense of belonging remain important at every age.