A FORMER teacher who has lived all her life in Blackburn has celebrated her 100th birthday.

May Yates, who was born and raised in the town, enjoyed an open-house party for her friends and family yesterday. She still lives independently with the help of carers and her relatives.

MORE TOP STORIES:

Born at Earcroft Farm, in Sandy Lane, Mrs Yates moved at the age of eight to Craven’s Farm which was run by her father. She attended Earcroft School but left at the age of 14 and went to help on the family farm.

During the Second World War, she delivered milk each day around the area but was also a seamstress and loved knitting. She returned to education and trained to become a teacher at the age of 35. When she qualified she taught at Four Lane Ends school in the town for around 30 years before retiring.

Mrs Yates married Tim Whipp in 1960. They were together for seven years until his death at 57. She said: “These were the best years of my life.”

She later married Harry Yates. They were together for 34 years until his death.

Mrs Yates did not have any children but has 11 nieces and nephews, a step grandson and granddaughter and a godson and god-daughter.

Her niece, Joyce Marsden, said: “Although she cannot see very well now, Auntie May knitted and sewed for a long time. Apart from a fall she had in June, which has made her legs weak, she is very healthy and her mind is just as healthy.

“She has always lived in this area. When she was a teacher and she also had a wool shop for five or six years that she ran with her sister. She helped with sewing for Bosnia and contributed to many charities over the years.”

Asked about the key to a long and healthy life, Mrs Yates said: “Good food — I have never had anything frozen. Everything I make is fresh.”