MEMBERS of her family came from near and far to help Mrs May Bannister celebrate her 100th birthday on Saturday afternoon at the Boniface Centre, Crediton.

Described by several people as “inspirational”, Mrs Bannister has written five books, the fifth being published on her birthday on Wednesday, May 11.

From Buckinghamshire where she was born, Mrs Bannister’s family moved to Tunbridge Wells, Kent where her father became farm manager on a big estate.

Later they moved to Partridge Green, Sussex, where her father bought a farm.

Although she was a clever young lady, her father could not afford for her to go to grammar school so, at the age of 14, she went to work in service in Brighton as one of 10 staff.

There she met Charlie. They were married at Partridge Green, later moving to Armitage in the Midlands, where their daughter June was born.

Then came a move to Colton, Staffordshire. Charlie went away to war in the Army when June was a year old.

During the war Mrs Bannister rode a bicycle collecting insurance money, then for 10 years managed a shop in Litchfield.

After the war, Charlie became a railway inspector and Mrs Bannister owned a flower shop for many years.

She had been writing since she was 16. Stories, poetry, articles, all hand written until she eventually bought a typewriter. At Colton she wrote for the Rugeley Times for 10 years completed a Certificate in Journalism from the International Correspondence School in 1970.

She won the Staffordshire Cup for imaginary writing, had numerous articles published but her big break came when she was invited to the BBC studios in Birmingham for a six month contract.

However, she had to make a choice, and it was with a very heavy heart that Mrs Buckingham gave up thoughts of working with the BBC.

Her faith has always been a strong support. While they were living in Colton, Mrs Bannister took the Bishop’s Certificate of Education.

After her husband retired, they moved to Crediton for two and a half years, then back to Colton. After Charlie died, Mrs Bannister moved to North Tawton to be near her daughter, moving to Kenwyn 12 years ago.

For 40 years she was involved in Guiding, enjoyed dancing, embroidery, sewing, flower arranging - and writing.

There has been travel too, in Europe and this country, with a trip to the Holy Land being her favourite.

This article is from the address given by one of her grand sons at the birthday party when he also said: “Through the years Nan has remained a constant source of knowledge, wisdom and non-judgemental reflection. A remarkable woman.”

Mrs Bannister has three grandchildren, eight great great grandchildren and one great great great grandchild with another on the way.

Sue Read