Hunmanby Charity Volunteer Retires On 100th Birthday

A charity volunteer from Hunmanby is retiring from her role as she celebrates her 100th birthday today.

Edna Bates has helped out at Saint Catherine's charity shop in the village for the past 21 years.

Leah Keoghan, who is her great goddaughter, said:

"She's actually the oldest volunteer that they've had so she's quite famous around Hunmanby.

"If you actually go into Saint Catherine's there are actually a couple of framed pictures of her behind the till.

"So it's been a really big part of her life for the past 21 years.

"She would have continued for as long as possible; she was doing two half a days and she was absolutely loving it.

"But, unfortunately, given the restrictions that are now in place with Covid, I think it's time to sort of think about herself.

"We were going to have a fairly large party for her at the community centre in Hunmanby, but given the situation with current times, we're just going to be celebrating very low-key as we raise a cup of tea and a slice of cake.

"There's a lot of people from her past are getting in touch and still at 100 years old, she still gets over 60 birthday and Christmas cards, so that'll be enough to keep her going for the afternoon.

"You wouldn't know that she was 100. She's still very able and when we go out and about, people cannot believe her age so I think she's quite shocked herself.

"But it's absolutely wonderful and we're so delighted that she's going to be getting her letter from the Queen."

When asked what is the secret to a long and happy life, Edna said:

"Well it’s not about whiskey or anything like that! It’s down to good old-fashioned working - just don’t stop. Keep working and your mind will always stay active."

Elizabeth Paley, Edna's goddaughter, said:

"Edna remains in remarkable health for a woman of her age. She has difficulty hearing and suffers from arthritis, but never lets anything get her down for long.

"I am extremely proud of her and it goes without saying that her family in Wales are also extremely proud of her.

"My mother became pregnant with me, and Bob and Edna became my godparents. That was in 1954.

When I had my daughter Leah in 1974, Edna and Bob became ‘great godparents’ to her also. They have always been a constant in our lives."

Edna has asked for voluntary donations to Saint Catherine’s in lieu of gifts.

Donations can be made at www.saintcatherines.org.uk/how-you-can-help-us/make-a-donation/