A WOMAN has celebrated reaching her 100th birthday.

Anna Valley resident Elizabeth Cruickshank, known to her friends and family as Betty, celebrated her 100th birthday on Sunday, April 24.

Betty celebrated her birthday surrounded by family and friends; they, alongside the residents of Taskers Drive, assembled outside Betty’s house singing and playing Happy Birthday to her.

Betty also received a birthday congratulations from Buckingham Palace featuring a message from The Queen; these messages are sent to anyone who reaches their 100th birthday, as well as their 105th birthday and any birthday the recipient reaches thereafter.

READ MORE: Swimming club receives £2,500 grant

Betty was thrilled to receive her birthday congratulations from Buckingham Palace.

Betty was born on April 24, 1922, in the village of Middleton of the Wolds in Yorkshire; she subsequently spent most of her childhood in York and looks back at the time fondly.

During the Second World War, like many women looking to do their part, Betty joined the Auxiliary Territorial Service, the women’s branch of the British Army; during her time with the ATS, she worked in admin.

It was during this time that she met her future husband, Arthur, whilst she was delivering maps.

Betty and Arthur soon married, and after the war briefly settled in Surrey before moving to Andover in 1949.

The couple initially lived on the High Street; during this time Arthur found work as a chartered accountant.

SEE ALSO: Charity to hold bike riding event to raise money

They later moved to a cottage in Charlton, before returning to Andover, with the couple eventually settling in Goodworth Clatford; Betty has lived in Anna Valley for over 30 years and has many friends both there and in Goodworth Clatford.

Betty is an active member of St Peter’s Church, located in Goodworth Clatford; her daughter Jane said that the church is an important part of Betty’s life, and she has been receiving communion from home for the past few years.

For many years, Betty has enjoyed friendship and trips out organised by the Sylvia Wicks Theatre Group to see theatre shows, as well as ballet.

Betty has two daughters, as well as two grandchildren.

When asked what the secret to getting to 100 is, Betty replied: “The secret to living to 100 is just determination!”

Message from the editor

Thank you for reading this story. We really appreciate your support.

Please help us to continue bringing you all the trusted news from your area by sharing this story or by following our Facebook page.