Peggy Ripley celebrates her 100th birthday with family

Peggy Ripley’s family was keen to celebrate her special milestone and make as many memories as possible with the centenarian.

Her granddaughter Katherine Falkiner wanted to share her grandma’s story and how honoured the family was to mark the occasion. 

Bradford woman, Peggy Ripley celebrates her 100th birthday with Lord Mayor Gerry Barker. Image: Newsquest (Image: Newsquest)

She said: “As a family, we are excited to be able to celebrate 100 years of our Grandma Peggy and we feel so fortunate to be able to do this, as growing older is a privilege sadly denied too so many.

“We are incredibly proud of her and even at her grand old age she still loves a good party and to dance the night away if she has half a chance, so we will ensure she gets that for this super special milestone.”

Peggy Ripley was born on May 26, 1923, in South Tyneside but her family moved to Keighley for work early in her life and settled in Bradford in 1962.

The centenarian, who lived in Halifax during World War II and started work at a Bradford factory at the age of 14, has lived a rich and full life.

Peggy celebrating her 100th birthday with her family. Image: Newsquest (Image: Newsquest)

When asked about her favourite memory of Bradford, she said there had been many stand-out moments, including working at Baird Television, A.E. Auto Parts and, eventually, Sunwin House, where she retired at 65.

“I have lots of memories as well of going to watch Bradford Northern/Bradford Bulls play," she said.

“But most of all I am proudest of raising my family here in Bradford and being able to watch my daughters, grandchildren, and my great-grandchildren grow up.”

Reflecting on her memories and the best times of her life, she shared how she once waved at Princess Elizabeth and Princess Margaret while she was living in Catford with her grandparents.  

Peggy celebrating her 100th birthday with a glass of champagne surrounded by her family. Image: Newsquest (Image: Newsquest)

Peggy has seen Bradford change over her lifetime, and she’s impressed by how even with all the modernity, it’s still managed to keep its heritage.

Talking about her life experience, in comparison to today’s young people, she said she left school on a Friday at the age of 14 and started working at a mill as a ‘doffer’ the following Monday.

When asked what her tip was to reaching the huge milestone, she said: “I think it’s down to luck and enjoying a few gin and tonics along the way.”

Her advice to young people is: “I always tell my grandchildren and great-grandchildren to live their life, make the most of opportunities that come your way and so long as you aren’t causing harm to anyone then just enjoy yourself.”