THE secret to a long and happy life has been revealed by a woman celebrating her 100th birthday.

Frances Blatchford says that the secret to her long, healthy life has been honest, hard work.

Born at Tedburn St Mary in 1909, Frances Stanbury, as she was then, was raised in the village, went to Tedburn St Mary school and sang in the church choir.

She was one of six children and had four brothers and a sister.

When her family moved to nearby Great Uppacott Farm, Frances helped on her father William's farm. William was also a well-known local butcher.

Frances married farmer Norman Blatchford, who came from Chagford and the couple moved to West Combe Farm, Chagford.

Frances was an active member of the Women's Institute.

In the late 1950's Frances moved back to Tedburn St Mary with her husband Norman to farm at The Close.

When they retired, the couple moved to Dunsford Gardens, St Thomas, Exeter, where they were keen bingo enthusiasts.

Norman passed away in 1999 but the couple had been side by side for 65 years.

In June 2001, Frances moved to Parkland House Residential Home, St Thomas, Exeter.

It was on Friday, November 6, that she celebrated her birthday with a party for the other 50 residents, staff and guests.

Frances was, in fact, treated to two parties as the evening before, on Thursday, November 5, a special party with many of her friends was also held. This include entertainment, a buffet tea and a firework display.

Among the many cards was a treasured card of congratulation from HM the Queen. Frances also received a telegram from Yvette Cooper, the Minister for Work and Pensions. She also received many gifts and presents.

When asked about the secret to her long, healthy life, Frances said: "I don't think there is any secret to living for 100 years, but hard work never did anyone any harm."

Sue Gooding, manager at Parkland House Residential Home, said Mrs Blatchford is a "quite able, happy person."

The home's activities co-ordinator, Hazel Price, said: "Frances has bags of personality. She has many loves, including chocolate, music and singing."

Alan Quick