A FORMER Cullompton book-keeper born months before the outbreak of the First World War has celebrated her 100th birthday.

A constant stream of visitors popped in to see Vera Greensides at the Yarlington retirement scheme where she lives, and fellow residents threw a party.

Yarlington assistant director Nick Fry, home carer Alison Hunt and Ilminster Bowls Club were among those who gave flowers.

Vera and her late husband, Bill, were keen members of the club, where they established the Minnows Club for young bowlers.

Vera was born and educated in Devon, where she worked as an apprentice book-keeper with Thorne Brothers in Cullompton.

She said: “Bill and I were very keen bowlers in our day. We were quite good and played for local teams.”

Vera is an active member of the residents’ group at the Yarlington facility, where she has lived for 25 years, and she enjoys bingo and coffee mornings.

Asked her secret for a long life, she said: “Be friendly and be helpful.

“I have lots of good friends and I’m sure they keep me going.”