90th birthday is cause for twin celebration

BEATRICE’S daughter, Pat Bridgestock, with a picture of the twins

SPRIGHTLY widows Beatrice Hodges and Gladys Stone are planning a major celebration — at the double.

The twin sisters are staging a party on Saturday to mark their 90th birthday, which takes place on Thursday.

Gladys and Beatrice were born in Slackcote, Delph. Beatrice still lives in the village but Gladys moved to Wellington, Shropshire, when she got married.

Beatrice, who has three children, six grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren, is the elder twin by 20 minutes.

She said: “I don’t have a recipe for longevity, I just keep going.

“I still go into Delph to do shopping every day and I get round everywhere by bus. I take an active interest in all local issues.”

Gladys has three children and six grandchildren and one great grand-daughter.

Beatrice’s daughter, Pat Bridgestock, who lives in Grotton, said: “Mum and Gladys are remarkable. Their handwriting is identical, which makes it very difficult to know which of them has sent letters.

“They are both very independent and Gladys, who is a keep-fit fanatic, is coming up for the party.”

Beatrice’s son, John Hodges, from Grotton, added: “We are very proud of mum and her sister.

“They do not see a lot of each other but it is great they will be together to share this very important day.”