I finally got my first tattoo at the age of 77 and I wish I did it sooner

A CARE home resident has seen her teenage dream come true after getting a tattoo — at 77.

Helen Allen had always wanted an inking since admiring one on her late partner, Keith Mitchell.

She explained to the team at Foxland Grange in Wolverhampton where a “wishing tree” allows residents to suggest ideas they would like to explore.

Helen now proudly wears a small butterfly design on her right arm — etched for free by Garth Cole-Jones, co-owner at Some’ink Different in Telford, Shropshire.

Helen said: “I don’t know why I didn’t get it done sooner.

“It’s hard to describe the feeling but I wouldn’t call it painful.

“Garth made me feel so at ease and I couldn’t believe how quick it took.

“I thoroughly enjoyed the experience.”

Chelsea May, at Care UK’s Foxland Grange, said it was a surprise when Helen mentioned the idea but they could not wait to organise it.

She added: “We encourage residents to dream big and share their hopes and ambitions.

“We hope Helen inspires others to make their dreams a reality, no matter their age.”