LIVING on Anglesey was a wish come true for an Amlwch resident who is celebrating her 100th birthday.

Bradford-born Joan Mary Gledhill, nee Cradock, often visited Anglesey for holidays when she was younger. She threw a coin into St Seiriol’s well, at Penmon Priory, making a wish that she could some day move to the island. It was granted in1963 when she moved to a house in Pengraigwen with her husband Doug Gledhill.

Now, Joan is celebrating her life and special birthday with friends and relatives who are gathering for two parties.

Joan was born on May 20, in 1919. When she left school, she took a shorthand course, later taking a job at English Electric.

At 21 she married the boy next door, Doug. They moved to Nottingham when he obtained a new job. Joan also got a position as the personal assistant to the managing director Harry Wheatcroft, at Wheatcroft Roses

Joan remained there until she had her first child, Ian was born. Two years later Cathryn arrived. She now has four grand-daughters and five great-grandchildren. The couple were members of the Friary Church where they were involved in many of the activities.

After their move to Anglesey, they joined the Amlwch English speaking Methodist Church. Joan is currently number one on the Church roll.

The family started a mobile Fish & Chip shop which travelled to villages on the island and was successful. Doug later took a council job. When he retired they moved to Amlwch. Doug, passed away in November, of 2001. Joan still lives in Amlwch and attends the church.

Friends and family will come together on Saturday, May 18, for a party at the Lastra Farm Hotel and Restaurant, Amlwch and another party, at the same venue, is on her actual birthday, on Monday, May 20, organised by the Amlwch Methodist Church.