VE Day birthday for a lifelong Warrior

The 8th May is a special and historic day widely because of the official ending of World War Two in Europe, but it is also a day to savour for lifelong Wigan Warriors fan Patricia Halliwell who was born on Victory in Europe Day 75 years ago.

Named by her mother as Patricia Victoria Halliwell because of the peace ‘Victory’, the 75-year-old is a retired staff nurse of 40 years at Wigan’s Royal Albert Edward Infirmary.

Patricia, who has watched her beloved Rugby League club play at every final during her lifetime, said: “My mum told me about the war. She told me lots of stories about her being a kid during The Blitz. When she had me on VE Day everybody was out partying, she said. She called me Patricia Victoria because of the victory!

“I have some fantastic neighbours and they surprised me with a birthday cake! We have had a drink too to celebrate – not only for my birthday but for VE Day too.”

Throughout her years as a nurse, Patricia raised thousands of pounds for Wigan’s Computed Tomography (CT) Scanners, special care baby unit and the Cancer and Chemotherapy Centres.

Following retirement, Patricia, from Lower Ince, worked as a branch secretary for Unison for the NHS in Wigan and Leigh – continuing to help the services of nurse staff. 

Patricia was a staff nurse for 40 years.

Because of her work, Patricia was invited to the Royal openings of buildings in the Wigan and Leigh borough by Diana Princess of Wales and The Duchess of Gloucester.

Speaking about the current unprecedented times relating to the coronavirus pandemic and difficult days for the NHS, she said: “I’m outside my door at 8pm every Thursday clapping – NHS workers are still my colleagues even though I’m retired. 

“I want to thank them for everything they’re doing – they’ve been through some very tough times over the last few weeks. I’ve been through some tough times but none as tough as now.”

Patricia was a staff nurse for 40 years

Patricia’s son, Sean Halliwell, added: “My mum has done so much for the town. She has been involved in raising thousands of pounds through the years and dedicated her life to the NHS.

“I was going through her scrapbook the other day and I said to her, ‘you’ve done loads!’ – she was so humble about it – like she always is.

“She’s been a dedicated Warrior fan all her life. The picture outside Old Trafford is her mascot she made with every rosette from every final pinned to it!”

Everyone at Wigan Warriors would like to wish Patricia a very happy 75thbirthday on this special day!

Friday 08 May 2020