Miss Gladys Kelson, of Christchurch, Road celebrated her 100th birthday on Easter Monday. Gladys proudly displays her card from the Queen, but sadly cannot see it as she has lost her sight. She also had a visit from the mayor and mayoress, her local councillors and many friends and family.

Gladys was born in the house in Christchurch Road and has lived there all her life. Her first job was just across the road. She went to act as a companion for a fortnight but stayed for 25 years!

She then started a career in the School Meals Service, beginning at Durham Road before moving on to Stow Hill, Lliswerry and St Julian's Primary School.

Gladys still prepares meals and does the washing up, but now relies on her sister-in-law, Patricia, to do the actual cooking.

She spends her time listening to the radio, CDs and her favourite "talking books". Gladys is a fine lady and a great conversationalist. We wish her many happy returns.

UNDERSTANDING DEPRESSION: Duckpool Road Baptist Church is hosting a day conference, led by Dr John Lockley, on Saturday, February 28, entitled Understanding Depression.

There are four sessions dealing with topics such as depression, stress, healing and helping, interspersed with refreshment breaks, lunch and brief worship sessions.

Dr Lockley, a graduate and now a teacher at Cambridge University, has written 11 books and appears regularly on television. He is married with three grown-up children.

For further information please telephone Sandra (677 801), Jean (667 030) or Pat (262 386).