FOUR women in Wiltshire have clocked up a total of 410 years between them.

Ada Bone from Purton marked 102 years, Gertrude Tippetts from Royal Wootton Bassett turned 103, Ella Beams of Malmesbury celebrated her second letter from the Queen after reaching 105 and Barbara Kennett had a 100th birthday party in Calne.

All the women live in GreenSquare supported housing schemes across the area.

Gertrude, known to everyone as Gertie, said: “I don’t notice any difference being 103 really.”

Born in Avebury the youngest of six children, she never met her soldier father. He was killed in Turkey during the First World War.

She grew up and went into domestic service before marrying and having four children. She later became a post mistress and after she was widowed she took a job at Marlborough College, only retiring when she was 70.

“I don’t have any tips for others, but I suppose I’ve always worked hard. I don’t really drink and I’ve never smoked,” she said.

Fellow residents, along with family members, gathered for a party on her birthday for lunch, tea, birthday cake and songs.

Gertrude said: “I’m very happy here and have made plenty of friends over the years. I have enjoyed the party and had lots of different presents. My cake is beautiful.”

To mark her birthday Ella received a telegram signed by Amber Rudd MP, Secretary of State for Work & Pensions, and a card from the Queen.

“She first received a card at 100 and now at 105 she’ll get one every year. “Oh yes, me and the Queen are chums now!” she said.

Having the odd treat was her secret to comfortably clearing the 100 milestone.

“A little bit of what you fancy does you good,” she revealed

Housing association service manager Chris Wildman said: “With 410 years between the four of them, these residents have a lot of life experience and plenty of stories to tell!

“It has been wonderful to see them celebrate such milestone birthdays.

“Residents can lead and enjoy full lives. We provide that independence, which many are afraid they’ll lose when moving into older people’s accommodation.”