A great-grandmother from Tyneside who reads The Chronicle every day has celebrated her 100th birthday. Hilda Hindmarsh marked the milestone with a party at her home in Dudley, North Tyneside, on Wednesday.
She was astonished when the entire Fordley Primary School, located in the nearby village of Cramlington, visited her home to sing Happy Birthday. The children made individual birthday cards, and she received flowers and chocolates. Hilda described the experience as 'very overwhelming'.
Secrets to a Long Life
When asked about the secret to reaching 100, Hilda credited 'home cooking, keeping active, and doing lots of puzzles'. She eats only fresh food, still strips her own bed, and enjoys completing crosswords and Sudoku puzzles.
Her great-nephew Stuart Hedley, 61, from Gosforth, Newcastle, attended the party. He said: 'It's fantastic. She's done so well. She wasn't too great a few years ago but she's made it through to 100 now. She says it's just like any other day!'
Family and Community
Hilda grew up in Great Ayton, Teesside, before moving to Gosforth as a teenager. She met her husband Jack and married in her 20s. Jack passed away over 40 years ago after a fall at work. They had one son, Brian, now 73, and Hilda has three grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
Stuart added: 'She's always been active and does a lot for the church. She sends a donation every week. She's always supported Newcastle United and tells me who they're playing every weekend.'
Hilda still reads The Chronicle daily, has done for decades, and keeps up with current events. She also bakes apple pies for visitors and is known for her caring nature.
Birthday Celebrations
The party was organised by friends Helen Barron, 73, and Carol Jeffrey, 75. Helen said: 'Her house is absolutely chock-a-block with friends and family. She was very emotional when the whole school came out. Every child made a separate card.'
Helen described Hilda as 'fiercely independent'. She noted: 'Only last year she made her own birthday cake at 99. She cooks all fresh, strips her own bed, and even cuts and styles her own hair. She's amazing!'
Hilda received more than 100 birthday cards, including one from King Charles III and Queen Camilla. The local councillor also visited to congratulate her.
