Betty celebrates century with family

Mrs Wilkins, who resides at the Scotch Dyke care home, in Beehive Lane, Ferring, marked the occasion with a party –and received a healthy collection of balloons.

One of 14 children, Betty was born in Worthing, but lived in Southwick for over 60 years.

She was married to Bill, who died in 1997, and had one daughter – Linda.

Linda said: “She doesn’t really have a secret to a long life, but her eight great-grandchildren like to think it is them.

“She never smoked, and liked the occasional 
drink, especially Baileys, but she is not allowed it anymore.”

Betty spent much of her working life at a factory in Portslade, which made aeresol cans.

Her friends and family travelled from as far as Manchester to be with her on her special day.

Linda said: “She used to love travelling with Bill, and went all over the world.”