Cricketers are not the only ones to take pride in reaching a ‘century’ because Bridlington parishioner, Blanche Mannix, has already exceeded that score with five years to spare! Blanche is also living evidence of the longevity of a life lived on a vegetarian diet and never a cigarette in sight.

Blanche surrounded by just a few of the many cards she received from friends and well-wishers including one from HM Queen Elizabeth.

Originally from Canada, she came to England to pursue a dancing career and subsequently married and enjoyed family life in this country. While still a young woman, she was diagnosed with a serious illness but had a ‘miracle’ cure that she attributes to the intercession of St Jude. She is resident at Mallard Court in Bridlington where she hosted a birthday party for all her many friends. She is still quite active and recently went on the SVP ‘day out’ to Sewerby Hall and Skipsea.

Blanche, having just enjoyed her 105th birthday, looks set for many more to come.

Photograph courtesy of Geraldine Kynaston