Former teacher is 101 years young (From Gazette & Herald)

Former teacher is 101 years young

A FORMER teacher and talented pianist has celebrated her 101st birthday at Old Malton.

Alice May Wellard, a resident at The Abbey nursing home, taught English in Hong Kong, where her late husband was in the civil service, and on their return to Britain taught in schools in the home counties. She qualified at Goldsmith's College and then taught at a marine school.

An accomplished pianist, she became the accompanist to artistes appearing on the stage on board the ship going to and from Hong Kong.

Gillingham-born Mrs Wellard and her husband were keen motorcyclists, travelling extensively throughout the country.

She also worked for many years with scout and cub groups.

Mrs Wellard has two daughters, Shirley and Margaret, and a son Paul, who taught at Malton School and at the Manor School, York, before he retired.

He is now well known as a member of Malton Town Band. Another son died in his youth.

In her later years, Mrs Wellard has been an avid reader.

Updated: 11:27 Wednesday, October 15, 2003