Flanderwell woman celebrates 100th birthday

FISH and chips and enjoying the things you like are just two of the tricks that have helped Jennie Oliver reach the grand old age of 100.Jennie celebrated with two parties and two cakes—the first, a family day out to her birthplace of York, where she

FISH and chips and enjoying the things you like are just two of the tricks that have helped Jennie Oliver reach the grand old age of 100.

Jennie celebrated with two parties and two cakes—the first, a family day out to her birthplace of York, where she was reunited with her youngest and only remaining brother.

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It was followed by a coffee morning with friends at her home at Blenheim Court,

in Flanderwell, when they collected £50 in donations for Bluebell Wood Children's Hospice.

Celebrations were topped off with a card from the Queen which she described as "very special."

Her daughter-in-law, Margaret Oliver, said: "Jennie had a lovely time in York, there were 16 of us and it was very special.

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"She loved seeing all her family, especially her youngest brother who lives in York."

Born in York on September 26, 1909, Jennie worked at the city's Rowntree factory as soon as she left school, making boxes for chocolates.

She met her late husband, Edward Oliver, at a wedding and moved with him to Rotherham where they had one son, Keith.

Jennie, who has two grandchildren, spent her years as a housewife and mother, a "full-time job," and lived in Thrybergh until moving to Blenheim Court, where her daughter-in-law, Margaret also lives.

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When asked what was Jennie's secret to long-lasting health, Margaret said it was about simple things.

She said: "She has always loved her food, especially fish and chips and sausage rolls, they're her favourites.

"She loves watching television and used to enjoy going to the pictures.

"Jennie is just a very positive person and makes sure that she does the things that she enjoys.

"She still looks after herself, my daughter and I help as well, but she makes sure that she knows what is going on.

"She's got lots of friends here at Blenheim and it is a great place to live."

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