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Could Hilda be the oldest person in Bridgwater?

From the Bridgwater Mercury, first published Wednesday 17th Oct 2007.

POTENTIALLY the oldest woman in Bridgwater celebrated her 106th birthday last Saturday (October 13) - and says she is now looking forward to her 110th.

Hilda Wilkins invited members of her close family to her home in Quantock Road for the celebration, and Hilda - having already received two letters from the Queen - is gunning for a third.

Her grandson, Bridgwater councillor David Preece, said that his "marvellous" grandmother takes no medication and is healthy, and can see no reason why shouldn't get the 110th birthday letter from HRH.

"She is definitely well enough to live another four years," he said. "We are wondering whether she might even be the oldest woman in the whole of Bridgwater."

Hilda was born one of nine children in 1901 in the village of Moorlynch, before moving to Chedzoy where she worked.

She then met and married her husband Harold, and had two daughters after moving to Dunwear Villa several years later.

David added: "Even today she still tells us stories about when she was growing up on the vineyards in Moorlynch, and milking the cows.

"The birthday party was a small gathering as we had a big do last year, but she really enjoyed it."

*Is Hilda the oldest woman, or indeed person in Bridgwater? The Mercury wants your help in tracking down someone older. If you know someone aged 106 or more, write to our postbag at Bridgwater Mercury, Royal Clarence House, York Buildings, High Street, Bridgwater, Somerset, TA6 3AT, or email newsdesk@bridgwatermercury.co.uk.

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