A WOMAN who fled Plymouth to escape the Blitz during World War II has celebrated her 100th birthday, writes Phoebe Horswell.

Lucinda (Lucy) Ellen Edge, nee Wiles, celebrated her big day at the Royal British Legion Club in Crownhill.

A total of 72 family members and friends attended the party, including her five children John, Mavis, Anita, Terry and Roy, 17 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

Guests came as far as Thailand and the USA to celebrate.

The family said, "everyone was interested to see her congratulatory card from the Queen."

Lucy grew up in Ainsley Terrace, Camel's Head, with parents Albert and Catherine Wiles and older sister Doris.

During World War II, husband William John Edge, known as Jack, moved the family to Fowey in Cornwall to escape the blitz of Plymouth. The family returned to Plymouth in 1947.

Sadly Jack died at the age of 58, and Lucy moved in with her eldest daughter Mavis.

For the last six years Lucy has lived very happily at the Vicarage House Residential Home, where she has been well cared for and her family are all very grateful to the staff.

Lucy's daughter, Mavis added: "Although Lucy has had her home in Plymouth all her life, she has been a well-travelled lady too, visiting France, Germany, Switzerland, Spain, Morocco, the USA and Canada and can tell you many a good tale about her adventures.

"But she loved going to the beach at Whitsands and to regularly go with Jack to watch Plymouth Argyle play each Saturday."