It was a chance for family, friends, and the photographer from the Stratford Herald to meet in Ilmington Community Café for celebratory tea and cake. Even the church bells rang for this very special occasion. Betty was born in Worcestershire and moved to Ilmington 59 years ago, raising three children with husband Bill, the village baker. Six grandchildren and a long life later, Betty welcomed a special guest to her party today: two-week-old Hayley, her first great-grandchild. As Betty cradled the baby girl proudly in her arms, everyone marvelled at the 100-year-old age gap. “It’s been hard work, life is hard,” says Betty, “but I’ve always kept busy. Even if I’m sitting down I’ve got to do something with my hands.” She has been a great knitter in her time. Son Stuart, who lives in nearby Tredington, jokes that he might retire to Ilmington one day – “there’s something in the water here that makes you live to a ripe old age!” There’s certainly something special about a community that cares so well for its older residents and comes together to celebrate the important things in life
