for a double celebration.

Mary Williams, who lives at the Hendra House Residential Home on Sandpits Road, is possibly the town’s longest-serving poppy seller, having racked up more than 60 years in the role.

But her impressive feat doesn’t end there as Mary has recently become great-great- grandmother to tiny Marlie Roberts.

The baby, born in July, is more than nine decades, and four generations behind her relative, and Mary was delighted when she found out there was to be another addition to the family.

“I was so pleased when I heard,” she said. “I didn’t think I was going to be alive this long.”

In between the pair is Marlie’s dad, Kyle; Kyle’s father, Anthony, and his mother and Mary’s daughter, Hilda – all of whom having Ludlow connections.

But the joy of having a new relative has not stopped Mary, who turned 94 yesterday (Wednesday), from continuing her poppy-selling duties.

“About 63 years ago, I belonged to the Royal British Legion, as I still do now, and they wanted collectors so I volunteered and have done it ever since.”

And despite moving to Hendra House last December, the born and bred Ludlovian has still been able to keep up her role in the build-up to this year’s Remembrance Day.

“I feared that last year would be my last, but the staff at the home have ensured that I can continue by selling the poppies in the home to my fellow residents and their visitors, as well as the staff,” she said.

And those working at Hendra House and across the town appreciate the hard work she puts in.

“Everyone in Ludlow acknowledges the work Mary has done for the Royal British Legion poppy appeal for many years, and it is only right that she should be allowed to continue in the role for as long as she is able to do so,” said Hendra House’s owner Vince Burmington.

The house hopes to hold its own remembrance service, finishing with a moment of silence and the laying of poppy crosses by residents.