BIG-HEARTED Edith Rutter decided to forego presents on her special day to support a cancer charity.

Edith, from Acton Bridge, celebrated her 100th birthday on August 14 with family and friends.

Instead of giving presents guests were invited by Edith to support a cause with a special meaning for the centenarian.

Edith’s granddaughter Rebecca died at the age of 17 from a rare form of bone cancer in 1993, and a raffle was held at the party for the Teenage Cancer Trust.

It raised £397, and the total has since risen to £1,245 with the addition of cheques and donations.

Edith Verdun Rutter was born in Northwich on August 14, 1916, and was one of six children born to Jack and Sarah Bunkall.

She worked in the stores for the canteen at ICI at Weston Point near Runcorn, and married George Edward Rutter in 1940.

George served in The Second World War as a Sergeant Major in the Royal Artillery with the Desert Rats.

Edith and George moved to Acton Bridge in 1967, and George died in 1987.

The couple had two children, Margaret Musgrave, who lives in Acton Bridge, and her twin brother John, who lives in Barnton.

Margaret had two children, Rebecca, and Andrew, 44, who has two boys, Thomas, nine and Oliver, 13.

“We had a party and a buffet in the parish rooms at Acton Bridge for 80 family and friends, and a raffle was held for the Teenage Cancer Trust in memory of Rebecca,” said Margaret.

“I would like to thank everyone for making mum’s 100th birthday such a memorable and special occasion.”

Edith received 130 cards and letters to mark her milestone 100th birthday, including one from The Queen, and received a number of bouquets.

“Edith is well known, having been very active in the Acton Bridge WI for many years in the past, and also for many years attended Little Leigh Parish Church and Acton Bridge Methodist Chapel,” added Margaret.

The Teenage Cancer Trust, www.teenagecancertrust.org, supports the seven young people aged between 13 and 24 diagnosed with cancer in the UK every day.