A REMARKABLE Redditch woman named after an historic First World War battle is turning 100 years old this week.
The unusually named Vera Messines Braziel (formerly Brant) was born in the early hours of June 8, 1917 – the same night as the famous Battle of Messines fought on the Western Front in Belgium.
Vera has lived in Redditch since she was 17 years old and as she reaches her centenary this week, she still lives independently at her home in Headless Cross.
As a young woman she worked in Perks grocer’s on Evesham Street before becoming a full-time mum to her five children.
Her daughter, Chris Allured said: “She’s looking forward to celebrating with everyone.
“She’s an amazing woman – so adaptable, The world has changed so much since she was born and yet she embraces the world wholeheartedly.”
Vera attributes her grand age to a life lived free from cigarettes and alcohol, with a simple diet of meat and vegetables – and she particularly enjoys a pork chop for her dinner.
The family will be celebrating Vera’s 100th year with her on Saturday with a big dinner party with around 60 of her family and friends.
