RACHEL Bothwell marked her 100th birthday on January 25th last with family and friends from near and far. Her many cards included the customary message from President Mary McAleese and from a school friend who is also a centenarian. She is the second youngest and last surviving member of her family of nine siblings, and emulates her elder sister who reached the same milestone in 1993.

Born near Portadown, Co Armagh, Rachel moved to the Carlingford area in 1930 when she married local farmer, John Bothwell.

They had nine children, 22 grandchildren, and to date there are 20 great grandchildren. She was widowed in 1982.

Apart from her shared passion of farming, particularly livestock, her other interests included: gardening – where her green fingers could make most things grow from slips; cooking – she made the best brown bread in Cooley according to one fan and home decorating.

Always ready for a challenge, Rachel took up driving in her 50s and continued until her trusty Renault 5 decided to retire her in 1993!

Until recent years she was an active member of St Andrew's Church, Bush, and enjoyed maintaining the interior after it was refurbished.

Although increasing frailty now restricts her mobility, she was determined with the support of her family and daily carers, Martina, Elizabeth and Mary, to reach her 100th. As she often says when things go well for her 'Glory Hallelujah!'

Her eldest son, Joe, and grandson, Alan, are continuing the farming tradition.

Congratulations and best wishes were sent to a remarkable lady and Cooley's oldest resident.