CONGRATULATIONS to Gwen Rothwell who celebrated her 100th birthday last Friday.

A native of Manorbier, Gwen enjoyed her landmark birthday celebrations at Belmont Court Nursing home in Tenby where she has been a resident for five years, before heading off to Manorbier for further celebrations with family and friends in the village.

Gwen was born on November 19, 1910, to Elizabeth and William Hughes at May Cottage, Manorbier, and was a sister for Nancy. She attended Manorbier School until she started work as a children's nurse. This took her to different parts of Wales and the Borders.

At the outbreak of war, she went to work in Coventry for the well known vehicle manufacturer, Alvis. They were happy years and she had an active social life there.

Among her interests was cycling and she and her friends covered many miles. But she always returned to Manorbier for her holidays and walking along the cliff paths, swimming and crabbing on the 'patch' were her favourite pastimes. Manorbier was and still is, a very special place for her.

Retirement brought her back to live at May Cottage and she looked after her mother in her final years.

The late 70s brought romance into Gwen's life when she was reunited with an old friend, Jim Rothwell. They married in Penuel Baptist Chapel where Gwen is still a member. They enjoyed travelling to new places and visiting their families.

Gwen was an active member of Manorbier WI and took part in all their activities, especially the entertainments in which she took to the stage.

Sadly, she broke her leg badly at home in 2005 and ever since has been unable to walk. After months in hospital, she moved to Belmont Court in Tenby, where she has a room with a view towards Caldey Island. Now she enjoys her radio and television and frequent visits from faithful friends and family.

She likes to keep in touch with Manorbier news and in the summer takes a taxi to the country market in the Parish Hall. She also goes to a Lunch Club each month where she meets friends.

Throughout her hundred years, Gwen has had a good sense of humour. She's also had to adapt to many changes as they've come along. She prides herself on keeping up-to-date and interested in the world around her. A sure recipe for a long life!