My name is Mary Wilkinson I was born on July 7th 1933 at Wheatley Hill in 24 Smith Street I was the 13th child to Samuel and Mary Ann Gibson nee Marks.

I was 1½ pounds birth weight the incubator was a tomato box lined in satin I was put on the hearth with the oven door open.

I was fed every 2 hours with a fountain pen dipper with boiled water and sugar. I was bathed in warm olive oil by Doctor Grey and the midwife and wrapped in cotton wool.

I walked at 10 months old, every one round the village came to see me Doctor Grey said I was a miracle. I have 3 children and 2 grand children. I have had a happy life and love coming to the Mothers Club with my friends.