CHAMPAGNE corks were popping in Orcop last week as one resident celebrated her 100th birthday with family and friends.

After attending St Weonards School, Phyllis Farr, nee Benjamin, worked in various jobs in households throughout Herefordshire.

At the outbreak of the Second World War she was working at a house on the Isle of Wight – where she frequently flew by plane which was unusual at that time.

Phyllis returned to Herefordshire to take on the role of civil inspection of arms at the Rotherwas munitions factory and her name is recorded on the large monument which was recently erected there.

In 1943, she married Meysey Farr –who is now 90 – and helped him run the family farm in Kilpeck.

They lived in the 16th century farmhouse until 1957 when they moved to a newly built bungalow in Orcop.

The couple had three children – one daughter, Pat and two sons, John and Ron – and now have four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren as well.

Until recently, Phyllis helped out at the farm and also held the role of secretary for Orcop Women’s Institute.

Phyllis and Meysey recently celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary and are looking forward to the impending arrival of two great-grandchildren.