Shropshire Star

John celebrates his 100th

A domino-playing former factory worker from Codsall has celebrated his 100th birthday.

Published

John Gatenby, known as Jack, celebrated the milestone with a party at Codsall Conservative Club surrounded by family.

Mr Gatenby moved to the area seven years ago from Middlesbrough, where he worked as a foreman in the steel industry, to live with his late son Eugene and his wife Lorna in Fairfield Drive, Codsall.

Lorna said her father-in-law was very astute for a 100-year-old.

"He is very alert," she said. "Even now he can play a game of dominoes and remember all the players' hands. He is very interested in football and watching the cricket. He still has a good zest for life."

Mr Gatenby had two sons – Eugene, who died last year aged 76, and John Terence, 73 – with his late wife Eugenie. He has three grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, many of whom came down from Scotland for his party which took place on Sunday.

Lorna said he was delighted to be surrounded by so many well-wishers.

"In the toast he asked people to remain as a family," she added.

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